Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. Sanchez and Dr. McCoy de Sanchez, or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants fall into two categories: conventional implants and mini-implants.  Conventional dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the implant, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. An abutment, which acts as a base for a prosthetic tooth replacement such as a crown, is inserted into the implant at the time of implant placement, or subsequently after a period of healing.  In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone recession that occurs when teeth are missing.

Mini-implants consist of a miniature titanium implant that acts like the root of your tooth and act as a retaining fixture that is incorporated into the base of your denture. The head of the implant is shaped like a ball and the retaining fixture acts like a socket that contains a rubber O-ring. The O-ring snaps over the ball when the denture is seated and holds the denture at a predetermined level of force. When seated, the denture gently rests on the gum tissue. The implant fixtures allow for micro-mobility while withstanding natural lifting forces.  Mini implants can function as long-term supporting structures rather than as short-term or medium term devices.  The most effective use of this unique dental product is stabilization of a lower denture.  Denture patients have experienced relief from loose or ill-fitting dentures by the use of mini implants.  Another function for mini-implants is as a temporary anchorage in orthodontic treatments.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Sánchez or Dr. McCoy will uncover the implants and attach a small healing abutment. Then, we will be able to begin making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

In general the procedure for conventional implants goes as follows: dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.  For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within 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.

In conclusion, dental implants are changing the way people live!  With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.  We use BICON implants for conventional implants and IMTEC for mini-implants.  Check their websites: www.bicon.com/patient and www.imtec.com/demo for implant information.

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by our doctors. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.   Call our office and schedule an appointment so that we may answer any questions you may have.