Service description

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. A person who has lost their teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything. Their teeth appear natural, and their facial contours are preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile once again with confidence.

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

The implants are tiny titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. 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. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures: First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this period. During this integration, your dentist is forming your new replacement teeth. After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Tien will uncover the implants and attach small posts that protrude through the gums that act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts will be covered and hidden from view by the artificial teeth that are placed. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

WHAT TYPES OF PROSTHESIS ARE USED?

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 on a variety of factors. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball-in-socket attachment, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist. Dr. Tien performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite. Inpatient hospital implant surgery is for patients with special medical or anesthetic needs or for those needing extensive bone grafting.

DO IMPLANTS NEED SPECIAL CARE?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take good care of them and keep your mouth healthy. Good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and regular appointments with your dental specialists are critical to dental implants' long-term success. If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, there are ways of improving the outcome, such as bone grafting, which may be recommended.