Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium post that is positioned into the jawbone underneath the gum. It is allowed to heal over the span of a few months, which will allow incorporation with the jaw. Once this has occurred, the dental implant post will act as an “artificial tooth root” and serve as base support for either a dental implant crown, implant supported bridge, or an overdenture. The dental implant is a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth.The superstructure on top of that can either be fixed or removable.
How long does a dental implant take to heal?
Typically, a dental implant will take anywhere from 3 months to 6 months to heal. This healing process depends upon the location of the implant and the quality of the jawbone. The dentist will be able to advise you of your particular healing time frame.
What type of dentist do I see for a dental implant?
A dental implant is usually performed by a team of dentists. This team usually consists of your general dentist and either an oral surgeon or periodontist.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
- Improved comfort
- Improved chewing
- Improved appearance
- Improved speaking
- Improved self-esteem
- Improved oral health
Different types of dental implant restorations include:
- Single implant crown
- Implant borne dental bridge (Full Arch Implants)
- Implant retained dentures (Overdentures)
Commonly asked questions regarding dental implants
Yes, it is important to brush and floss regularly to maintain optimum oral health. Regular 6 month check ups should also be done. There is still bacteria and plaque in the mouth that has to be removed daily.
Yes, in most cases a temporary tooth is necessary to allow one to function in social settings, or at work. Temporaries can include temporary crowns or flippers.
A surgical stent is a surgical guide so the implant is placed at the correct angulation in the jawbone.
Implant planning and diagnosis – A patient goes first for a 3-D x-ray called a cone beam scan. After this, careful planning is done by the doctor to decide the best location and angulation of the dental implant. A surgical stent is also fabricated to help place the implant.
A cone beam scan is needed to generate a 3-D model of your jawbone. This allows for better implant planning and placement.
A bone graft is needed to augment the bone in an area where there is insufficient volume of bone. There different sources of bone grafting materials that can be used.
Dental implants are divided into parts: the part that lies underneath the gum, and the part that lies above the gum. When an implant is loose, it could be either one or a combination of these parts that are loose. A proper x-ray and examination is used to help determine the problem. It should be noted that a “loose” implant is serious situation and should be addressed immediately.
Call El Barrio Dental Studio today at (212) 369-0680 to schedule a consultation.
