Dental Implants

Teeth-in-a-Day

 

If you lose one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, or another cause, there is hope. 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. 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. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes and interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor.  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 bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Dental implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Evaluation

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, Dr. Krueger will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

The Surgical Procedure

What is the procedure for full dental implants?

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors, such as hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.

How long do dental implants take to heal?

For the first three to six months following the surgery, dental implants are healing and bonding to the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary prosthesis and eat a soft diet at this time.

What are the phases of getting dental implants

After the implant has healed to the jawbone, which takes 4-6 months, the second phase begins. Dr. Krueger will initiate the fabrication of your final teeth/prosthesis. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

How long do dental implants last?

Photo of Dental Implant (real patient)

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option. With proper care and maintenance, a dental implant can last for more than 25 years.

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 partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of complete prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar with attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by a professional.

Dr. Krueger has received extensive training in Dental Implantology. Through continuing education, Dr. Krueger is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry, such as Teeth-in-a-Day™.