 For
Permanence & Performance
It's not uncommon for adults to lose teeth due to accident, injury,
disease or extraction. In such cases, we may recommend dental implants
as a secure,
functional replacement option because they do not rely on neighboring
teeth for support. Instead, they're permanently, surgically anchored
to the jawbone
as tooth root substitutes. The implant's stability helps restore normal
eating ability, provide face muscle support, and prevent jawbone atrophy.
Understanding the Procedure
Implants are tiny posts made of either a metallic or bone-like ceramic
material. Typically, a periodontal surgeon with special implant training
inserts the implant into the jawbone below the gum surface at the location
of the missing tooth. The bone then bonds to the post and forms a secure
foundation onto which we attach artificial teeth shaped to match your
existing teeth. If your jawbone is insufficient for this procedure,
we can also
fit a custom-made metal framework directly onto the existing bone instead.
In some cases, we use implants to anchor bridgework. Regardless of the
specific type of implant, the process generally requires a couple of
separate steps: "anchoring" and "attachment".
Establishing the Foundation
In most implant situations, we rely on an expert periodontal surgeon
to perform the first step of surgically 'anchoring' the tooth root
substitute "post" into
the jaw-bone below the gum tissue. For the next three to six months, we'll
allow this post to incorporate into the bone, forming a solid, enduring
base with sufficient stability to withstand the tremendous mechanical pressure
involved in normal chewing. Most patients find the presence of these posts
to be imperceptible. Meanwhile, we often provide a temporary bridge or
dentures to facilitate eating and maintain face muscle support.
Affixing the Replacement
After the implant post has bonded with the jawbone, a second procedure
fixes the custom designed top of the implant onto the anchor post.
To accomplish this, we carefully uncover each implant anchor, connect
it to a small post
that protrudes above the gumline. An accurate impression is taken of
this and sent to our lab. During this time, our laboratory carefully
designs
and custom manufactures artificial teeth for use over the implant tops.
The result is a secure, attractive, replacement tooth or set of teeth,
designed to function as effectively as the remaining natural teeth.
Depending on the number of teeth involved, this final step may take
around two
weeks to complete.
Enjoying the Results
If you're unfamiliar with implant technology, you may be interested
to know about the procedure's success rate. In fact, the nearly 20-year-old
technique has proven highly effective as a tooth replacement option,
depending
primarily on the recipient's health, as well as the location and function
of the teeth being replaced. Lower front jaw placement is typically successful
in 95% of cases, while side or rear placements may be only 85% successful.
Of course the outcome is always better for those in good general health,
and who have proper bone structure and healthy gums. Often, people unable
to wear dentures are among those who benefit most from implants. On the
other hand, chronic health problems such as clenching, bruxism, or
systemic diseases may decrease the procedure's success rate immensely.
Finally,
smokers and those who drink alcohol may also be poor implant candidates.
Considering the Cost
Due to the surgery involved, implant procedures are typically more
expensive than traditional bridgework. However, dental and medical
insurance may
cover portions of the overall restoration. It's best to discuss this
with Dr. Marini and our staff during your evaluation for implant
placement,
so we can assist you in working with your insurance company.
A final consideration is that of your own commitment to future oral
health, since research shows that poor oral hygiene itself can cause
implant
failure. So if you do receive implants, you'll need to be dedicated
to brushing
and flossing around your fixtures at least twice a day, according
to our specific instructions. Further, we may recommend that you come
in for up
to four annual professional cleanings to maintain healthy gums.
Back to Education
|
