What is a Dental Implant?

The anatomy of the natural tooth consists of the “crown” which is the chewing surface of the tooth and the root that is anchored in the jaw. A dental implant is a titanium cylinder that replaces the root of the tooth. It is surgically placed in the jawbone and after a healing period to allow the implant to “take” in the jaw, the artificial crown is placed on the implant by the family dentist. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth or even all of your missing teeth. For patients who use dentures, dental implants can be used to anchor the denture to the jaw. This will improve the stability of the denture and efficiency of chewing and speaking.

Who Can Benefit From Dental Implants?

Patients of all ages can benefit from dental implant treatment. Quality of life has many meanings. For some, quality of life is that beautiful smile with teeth. For others, it is being able to chew and enjoy food once again. Dental implants can improve the quality of your life. We recommend that you come visit us for a complete evaluation and consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for implant therapy.

The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed in your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase of treatment begins. Dr. Cameron Lee and Dr. Kristin Lee will uncover the implant and your family dentist will attach a post (abutment) to the implant which will act as the anchor for the artificial tooth. When the artificial tooth is cemented on to the abutment, only the crown will be observed. The entire procedure usually takes three to four months. If bone grafting is needed to build bone volume, more time is needed from start to finish.