Dental Implants

Dental implants change the way people live. They are essentially replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. Implants do more than just restore your ability to eat normally and give you an aesthetically pleasing mouth and smile. They also help preserve facial structure, actually preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dr. Jones’ patients with dental implants can smile, socialize and lead an active lifestyle with complete confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium and creates a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
How Do You Know if Dental Implants are Right for You?

Dental implants do more than improve the look and function of your mouth. They improve your life because they become stable fixtures, just like real teeth. Living without teeth—whether for a short time or many years—is something most people never fully get used to. Your teeth are a vital part of your lifestyle.
You can count on the solid history behind the technology of dental implants. A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per–Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than 35 years ago. His pioneering research has changed the lives of millions of people facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.

Why Would You Choose Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types of Restorations?

There are several reasons why implants deliver superior results:

  • Using a removable bridge may actually sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth.
  • Removing a denture or a “partial” at night or during travel may be inconvenient.
  • Dentures that slip can be uncomfortable, not to mention embarrassing.
  • With implants, you can eat virtually anything, just as you would with real teeth.
  • Because implants become fixtures in your mouth, you never have to think twice about them during athletic or other physical activity.

What is the First Step?

If you are considering implants, Dr. Jones will thoroughly examine your mouth and review your medical and dental history. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, he may recommend ways to improve your outcome, such as bone grafting.

What Does Dental Implant Surgery Involve?

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures under general anesthesia in the comfort and convenience of our state of the art office:

Phase 1—Implants are placed in your jawbone. For the first 3 to 6 months following surgery, the implants remain beneath the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. Meanwhile, your new replacement teeth are formed.
Phase 2—After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, Dr. Jones will uncover the implants and attach small posts that protrude through the gums and anchor the artificial teeth. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts are not visible. The entire procedure usually takes 6 to 8 months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

In many cases, though, thanks to recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Jones is able to place single stage implants. These implants do NOT require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of 6 weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. In some cases, the implants can be placed conveniently at the same time as a tooth extraction.

To help you manage swelling and discomfort, we will release you with our thorough post-operative instructions and medication. You may also be provided with instructions for any dietary considerations. Of course, we are available for ongoing support for any of your questions or concerns, as well.

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. Just as with real teeth, good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists are essential.