Procedures

Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. A person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.

What Are Dental Implants?

An implant is actually a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing. This metal anchor acts as a substitute for the root of a tooth . The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for a replacement tooth, or crown.  A small post that protrudes through the gum tissue is then attached to the implant. This post provides a stable anchor for the replacement tooth, or crown.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure

First, the implant is placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implant gradually bonds with the jawbone. You should be able to wear a temporary appliance and eat a regular diet during this time.
 
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Wheeler or Delsol will attach a small post that protrudes through the gum tissue and will act as an anchor for the replacement tooth. When the artificial tooth is placed, this post will not be seen. In some instances, your dentist may place this post in order to customize your crown.  The entire procedure usually takes four to six months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.
 

Dental Implant Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

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Surgical Advances

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Drs. Wheeler and Delsol are sometimes able to place the implant at the same time as a tooth extraction – further minimizing the number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Drs. Wheeler and Delsol perform the initial tooth extractions, necessary bone grafting,  and the implant surgery.  Your dentist fits and makes the permanent crown, bridge, or denture. Your dentist will also make any temporary appliance needed during the implant process.

What Types Of Prosthesis Are Available?

A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A fixed bridge can replace three or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A removable dental prosthesis (partial or complete denture) replaces several or all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended.
 
Drs. Wheeler and Delsol perform most implant surgery in their office surgical suites. Inpatient hospital implant surgery is available for patients who have special medical or anesthetic needs or for those who need extensive bone grafting from the jaw, hip or tibia.

Dental Implant Overview

For a brief narrated overview of the dental implant process, please click the image below. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about dental implants.

Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.

Why Dental Implants?

After you learn about dental implants, you will come to realize there is a way to improve your life through modern dentistry and oral surgery. When you lose several teeth – whether it's a new situation or something you have lived with for years – chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself.

Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.

A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than 35 years ago. With his pioneering research, Dr. Branemark opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.

Why Select Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of Restorations?

There are several reasons: Why sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge a space?  In addition, most people find removing a denture or a “partial” at night inconvenient, not to mention that loose dentures can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing.

Are You A Candidate For Implants?

If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.

What Type Of Anesthesia Is Used?

The majority of dental implants and bone graft can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without intraveonous sedation or general anesthesia.

Do Implants Need Special Care?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental professionals.