Dental Implants

 

What are dental implants?

A natural tooth consists of a crown and a root. These two parts have essentially been replicated in the development of implant-supported replacement teeth. Both natural teeth and implant-supported replacement teeth therefore have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both also have a root that is anchored within the jaw and positioned under the gum, and it is the root which holds the tooth securely in place. With implants, the “root” portion is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by Orthopedic Surgeons in the placement of artificial joints. When a tooth is lost, both the root and the crown need to be replaced to best replicate an actual natural tooth. This is accomplished with an implant-supported replacement tooth. The first stage in this process is for the Oral Surgeon to replicate the root portion of the artificial tooth by placing a small dental implant within the jaw bone.

Dental Implant Illustration
Time is allowed for the bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for supporting the artificial tooth (or teeth).  A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of the teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Özcan is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are certain cases for which an implant can be placed at the same time as a tooth is extracted, which minimizes the number of surgical procedures required.

Dental implant placement is a team effort accomplished by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist.  Dr. Özcan performs the initial tooth extraction(s), the actual implant surgery, and bone grafting if necessary.  The Restorative Dentist (your Dentist) fabricates and fits the permanent prosthesis, as well as any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

“Don’t be afraid to

Smile.”

 For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My Dentist told me that dental implants would not only improve my ability to chew different foods and therefore improve my health, but would also enhance my smile. Since having dental implants placed, I’m truly thrilled. I can confidently smile and enjoy a good laugh with my friends, as well as feel good about eating a variety of foods again.