Losing one or more teeth from periodontal disease or other causes can feel overwhelming. But there is hope. Dental implants are transforming lives, restoring smiles and confidence!
Request an AppointmentWhat are Dental Implants?
Dental implants serve as a strong foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth. When you lose teeth, dental implants help you enjoy eating nearly anything and smile with confidence, knowing your teeth look natural and your facial structure stays preserved. The implants themselves are small titanium posts carefully placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as substitutes for tooth roots.
Over time, the jawbone bonds with the titanium, creating a sturdy base for your new teeth. Small posts extend through the gums and connect to the implants, providing a reliable anchor for your artificial teeth. Plus, dental implants help maintain your facial shape by preventing bone loss that often happens when teeth are missing.
Evaluation
If you think dental implants are right for you, you’ll start with a thorough dental and radiographic exam along with a health history review. During your consultation, Dr. Uemura, Dr. Vassilopoulos, or Dr. Shah will discuss your unique needs and answer your questions. Our caring team works closely with you to ensure your implant journey is smooth and successful.
We’ll also talk about fees and insurance coverage at this time. Insurance plans vary widely, especially for implants, and we’re happy to help you understand and maximize any benefits you may have.
The Surgical Procedure
Most patients undergo two surgical steps when getting dental implants. First, the implants are placed into your jawbone. Healing time differs per person and depends on factors like bone density. Sometimes, implants can be restored immediately after placement.
For three to six months after surgery, the implants remain beneath the gum surface bonding with your jawbone. During this time, you can wear temporary dentures and eat softer foods. Meanwhile, your restorative dentist prepares your final bridge or denture to restore both function and appearance.
After the implant fuses with the bone, we move to phase two. Drs. Uemura, Vassilopoulos, or Shah will uncover the implants and attach a healing collar. Two weeks later, your general dentist takes impressions and begins crafting your new teeth. Posts or attachments connect to the implants, and your permanent teeth are secured over these. This entire process typically takes six to eight months. Many patients tell us they experience little disruption to their daily life.
What Types of Prosthesis are Available?
A single crown replaces one missing tooth, with each crown attaching to its own implant. Partial prostheses, like fixed bridges, can replace multiple teeth using two or three implants. Complete prostheses replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending on whether a removable or fixed prosthesis is used.
Removable prostheses (overdentures) attach via bars or ball-and-socket fittings, while fixed prostheses are permanent and removable only by a dental professional.
Drs. Uemura, Vassilopoulos, and Shah perform implant surgeries in our hospital-style operating suite to ensure optimal sterility. Inpatient hospital surgery is reserved for patients with special medical or anesthetic needs or those requiring extensive bone grafts from the jaw, hip, or tibia.
Our doctors have received advanced training in Dental Implantology and stay current through ongoing education, including innovative procedures like TEETH-IN-AN-HOUR™.