Single Tooth Dental Implants
Dental implants are small anchors made of a biocompatible metal called titanium that are placed in the jawbone. Dental implants are the replacement of tooth roots in the mouth. Once placed, the anchors begin to fuse with the bone over the course of a few months. After the fusing process, known as osseointegration, abutment posts are inserted into the anchors to allow for the permanent attachment of the replacement teeth.
Implant Supported Bridges
An implant supported bridge is a dental bridge that is secured to two or more dental implants rather than relying on the adjacent natural teeth for support. When a bridge uses natural teeth for attachment, the teeth must be prepared (shaved down) for crowns. Once the bridge is placed, the natural teeth will be subjected to increased stress that can be damaging – particularly if the existing tooth, roots, or surrounding bone structure are already compromised.
Implant Supported Dentures
For patients who are missing many or all of their teeth, implant supported dentures may be an alternative to traditional dentures. This solution requires the placement of two or more implants. In order to replace a full arch denture, a minimum of four implants is generally recommended. Eligibility for this solution is dependent upon a number of factors, with jaw bone density being one of the most significant determining factors.
Traditional dentures rely on an acrylic base that sits directly on the gums, held in place by a paste or adhesive. Using implants as supports for dentures allows for a smaller and more comfortable base and less shifting of the prosthesis during use.
Implants can support both full and partial dentures as well as both fixed and removable dentures. If a removable denture is selected, the denture will “snap” on to the implant rather than requiring the use of denture paste or adhesives.
Full Arch With Only Four Implants
This procedure is a unique implant solution that allows patients with a completely edentulous (toothless) upper or lower arch to replace all of the teeth in that arch using only four implants as anchors.
Guided Implant Placement
Dental implants are the replacement of tooth roots in the mouth. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Dental implants, which are placed in the jawbone, are small anchors made of a biocompatible metal called titanium. The anchors begin to fuse with the bone over the course of a few months. After the fusing process, known as osseointegration, abutment posts are inserted into the anchors to allow for the permanent attachment of the replacement teeth.
Using CBCT scans and restorative virtual treatment planning, along with specialized training, we are able to provide guided implant placement for our patients.
Using a virtual 3-D model or a physical model, implant placements and the following restorative work can be simulated to create the ideal patient treatment plan. These virtual plans allow the doctor to take multiple aspects of implant placement and restoration into consideration, resulting in optimal aesthetics, function and longevity for the patient’s final restoration. Working with a 3-D model also allows the patient to better understand the procedures and visualize the end result.
Once planning is complete, specialized software can be used to create a surgical guide for use during implant placement. This guide directs the exact location, angle and depth of the implant placement. The use of the guide increases the accuracy, efficiency, safety and predictability of the procedure.
When you choose to have computer guided implant placement, you also give yourself the option to have restorations placed the same day at the time of your procedure. There is no longer a need to wait to have your teeth after implant placement, or wear an uncomfortable removable denture during the healing time. Initial scans will be taken at your consultation for implant placement, and we will also scan and take photographs of your mouth so we can plan your dream smile. From there our onsite digital lab will fabricate your smile. At your next visit, implants and your teeth will be placed. You leave with a permanent smile, and will be able to enjoy your favorite meals just hours later!
