Dental Implant : How to avoid problems with dental implants.

Find out who has dental implants and ask them who did them and how they came out.

#2. Find qualified ADA specialists, preferably a Board Certified Prosthodontist , to treat you. This is a very demanding area and specialty training is required.

#3. Get a detailed, written treatment plan including all fees and make sure there are no hidden costs.

#4. Get a second Consultation to help you evaluate the first one.

#5. Ask the dentist for names of patients that he or she has treated and for the names of other dentists that he works with. Call them and find out as much as you can about the type of work this dentist does.

#6. Determine the commitment that this dentist has to dentistry and to the area of dental implantology. Does he or she teach? Does he or she publish articles in the scientific dental literature. Is he or she considered an "expert" in this area of treatment.

#7. Look for someone who is confident, cautious and thorough in his or her approach to your dental work.

#8. Call the state board of dentistry and find out if there are any rulings against this practitioner regarding his dental practice.

#9. Don't be afraid to ask how many of these procedures this dentist has performed successfully.

#10. Ask the dentist about failures. What happens if an implant fails. What are the alternatives if this treatment plan does not work?

http://www.drmagner.com/implants/index3.html#how

Dental Implant : How are dental implants used to replace missing teeth?

When you are using a dental implant to replace missing teeth, your dentist will first determine if you have enough supporting bone to safely place a dental implant to support a prosthetic tooth. The implant is placed into the bone in a very specific surgical procedure to insure that the implant will not be rejected by your body. In order to place the implant in the bone, it is necessary to cut through the gum tissue. The gum tissue will usually be sewed up either over the implant or around the implant after it is placed into the bone. The implant will then be allowed to heal in the bone for several months until the union is strong enough to support the prosthetic tooth.



3:What kind of dentist do I need to see?
Any dentist can place or restore a dental implant. Dental implants are usually placed by Oral Surgeons, Periodontists, Prosthodontists or General Practitioners. Prosthodontists and General Practitioners will usually be the one's who restore the "teeth". You should start by consulting with your general practitioner or a prosthodontist and determine how much experience and training they have in the general field of dental Implantology. If you elect to go with one of these practitioners, you can follow their recommendation as to who will actually place your dental implant. We will talk more about training and experience in the other sections of this module.



5. Are dental implants a permanent solution to tooth loss?
Yes dental implants are considered to be a permanent solution. There are, however, some caveats... Sometimes the dental implant does not integrate and it will be lost. In those cases, another implant might be placed that would stay there and become permanent. Sometimes, the restoration will have to be repaired or serviced... As a matter of fact, most restorations will require some degree of maintenance and sometimes replacement over a period of time. You should be prepared for future expenses in this regard.



6. Are there people who cannot have dental implants?
Most everyone can have dental implants placed, but there are some exceptions and some cautions... Patients who are uncontrolled diabetics or have severe psychological problems are not good canditates for dental implants. Patients with severe medical compromises are not good candidates for anything involving surgery although the dental implant procedures can normally be carried out under local anesthesia and are therefor less risky than surgical procedures requiring general anesthesia.

Patients missing a large amount of bone are not good candidates, but bone grafts can be used to replace the missing bone and allow the patient to have dental implants. You should speak very carefully to your dentist and find out just how good a candidate you are for dental implants. If there are things that will make you a better candidate, you should understand them and help to make the decision as to whether they will be implemented.

Those people who require significant bone grafting for implant placement should engage the services of a qualified oral surgeon. Many minor bone grafts can be accomplished by any competent dentist placing dental implants.

http://www.drmagner.com/implants/index3.html#how

Dental Implant : What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (synthetic material) that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support, they are permanent and stable. Implants are a good solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth.

Implant material is made from different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue. There are different types of dental implants: the first is placed directly into the jaw bone, like natural tooth roots; the second is used when the jaw structure is limited, therefore, a custom-made metal framework fits directly on the existing bone.

How do they work?
Strategically placed, implants can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.

Can anyone receive dental implants?
Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates.

What can I expect during this procedure?
The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the "artificial root" into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. Medications may be prescribed for soreness.

How long does the process take?
The process can take up to nine months to complete. Technology, however, is trying to decrease the healing time involved. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the screws and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months.

What is the success rate of implants?
The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth. The success rate is about 95 percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and 85 percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw.

How do I care for implants?
Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums.

What is the cost of implants?
Since implants involve surgery and are more involved, they cost more than traditional bridge work. However, some dental procedures and portions of the restoration may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. Your dentist can help you with this process.

©1996-2006 Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved.

Dental Implant : Immediate v Delayed Implants

There has been a lot of talk lately about what we in the profession call "Immediate Load" dental implants. Under such names as "Teeth in a Day", Teeth Now" or "Teeth Today", dentists have been advocating placing implants in patients and delivering the tooth restorations at the same time or within a day or two. The standard way of providing implant teeth for patients has been to place the implants and wait for 3 to 6 months before providing the tooth restorations and that is still the way the vast majority of implant dental restorations are performed. It is easy to see why people might feel that it is very desirable to get their teeth right away, but is it really in the patient's interest to do this.

This module will try to take a very objective look at dental implants and the question of Immediate v Delayed placement of the tooth restorations. I will leave it up to you, the reader (be you dentist or patient) to decide as to which methodology is proper with today's technology. . .SRD

By Dr. S. Robert Davidoff

Dental Implant : Advantages/Disadvantages

If I could harness all the energy that has been extended on discussions about which implant system is better or integrates faster or is easier to use, I would be able to power the world for years. This is a constant debate and I don't pretend to have all of the answers, but I do have some strong feelings and I'm going to air them out right here for everyone to see. I will first discuss specific differences and advantages of different categories of implants such as endosseous implants and sub periosteal implants, then I will discuss differences and advantages of general types of implants such as external hex, internal hex, etc. Next we will talk about microsurface technology and how that factors into the equation and we will also discuss how different techniques factor in as well. Finally we will discuss the various brands available on a one by one basis looking at whatever advantages and disadvantages there might be. Enjoy...
S. Robert Davidoff (September 2003)

One thing that I will say to perspective patients at the outset:

At the present time (September 2003), with regard to endosseous root form implants, there is no indication whatsoever that any given implant, surface treatment, prosthetic attachment, placement technique or brand of implant offers any perceptible advantage to the patient. For the present, all of these root form implants are created equal in terms of their effectiveness for patient treatment. If your dentist prefers a particular implant or a particular surface or technique, his or her experience with this system is the overriding factor in your treatment and if you believe your dentist to be capable and well trained in these techniques, go with their suggestions and don't waste your time trying to outguess your doctor.

Some day, we might have an dental implant or a surface or a technique that really proves superior in terms of patient treatment. When that happens, I will be the first to jump on the band wagon...

S. Robert Davidoff, DMD, FACP

Dental Implant : Dental Implant Center

If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffers from tooth loss, there’s reason to smile again!

Dental implants offer a permanent solution to the embarrassment of missing teeth, and a much more comfortable alternative to dentures.

Dental implants also can help preserve your natural teeth if you need a fixed bridge.

New technology provides the look and feel of your natural teeth. No one will know the difference!

Whether you have lost teeth because of disease, decay or trauma, Cleveland Clinic dental specialists can give you the opportunity to look and feel better, to eat anything you want, and to speak in front of others with confidence… many reasons to smile!

© Cleveland Clinic 2004

Dental Implant : Philadelphia Implant Dentists

Dental implants are a specialized part of dentistry. Naturally, there are specialists for dental implants. What they do is to “implant” teeth, if you have lost one, due to any reason. Whatever may be the reason, loosing teeth has tremendous psychological and physical impact on a person. Besides your appearance, you lose the functionality of that particular tooth. One may feel low on confidence and self-esteem, too.

People who have lost a tooth need not despair anymore, thanks to the advent of dental implants. If you are in Philadelphia, you have many a dentist and hospital which offer this service. People who lose a tooth can rectify their situation through dental bridgework. A dental bridge is nothing but a false tooth, held together by a set of crowns on the adjacent sides. In most cases, where one has lost one tooth, the adjacent teeth also are prepared by drilling to accommodate the new tooth. Although some are comfortable with this treatment, many others may feel uncomfortable with the dental bridges. This is where dental implants can help you.

Dental implants have gained popularity over dental bridges in recent times. Dental implants are essentially a titanium screw that is fused with the bone tissue and is anchored into the jaw bone. Once the implant is fused firmly with the jawbone, a porcelain crown is fastened onto the exposed portion of the dental implant. And voila, you have a brand new artificial tooth that looks and feels like a real thing. Moreover, unlike in the case of dental bridges, the adjacent teeth need not be affected.

Philadelphia has a number of dentists who can offer you dental implants. They are among the most renowned physicians in the implant dentistry. You can locate them through the local yellow pages or through online resources.

By Ross Bainbridge

Dental Implant : What to expect with a Dental Implant

Dental Implants are one of the fastest growing procedures in the dental industry as patients are now looking for a long term solution to replacing lost teeth and dental implants is the closest procedure you will find to replacing natural teeth.

But you may be thinking “ What to expect with Dental Implants ? “ before deciding on any dental implant procedure. The good news is that dental implants will normally have a 15-25 year life span for successful procedures, indeed the success rate for dental implants is very good with only about 5-10 % of patients rejecting any dental implant.

Many professionals will also offer to replace any failed dental implants but be sure to check with your consultant. Dental implants have received positive feedback with many patients believing that dental implants offer a more natural feel than bridging.

In common with most surgery, it is vital that your consultant does a full examination before any implant procedure. Patients who are effected by diabetic conditions, heavy smoking, stress or mental illness problems may find their dental implant success rate much lower. Please note this is also the case for many other simple medical procedures and not just linked to dental implants.

Dental implant surgery will take a different amount of time depending on the work required, all procedures should be performed under local anesthesia so it is a relatively pain free procedure.

It is important to remember that Dental Implant procedures are usually performed in stages lasting 3-6 months in many cases so it is not an overnight success although the long term benefits often outweigh the costs of dental implants which can range from $1000- $30,000 depending on the dental implants required.

Many people will also point out when asked “ What can I expect with dental implants ? “ is a return of self confidence as you no longer are reluctant to smile and expose your missing teeth ! Dental Implants should be a lifelong tooth replacement solution and in the long run will often be very cost effective.

By Kevin McNally

Dental Implant : Treatment

Dental implant is nothing but an artificial tooth root replacement, which is used mainly by prosthetic dentistry. These dental implants are of several types. The most successful and widely accepted is the Osseo integrated implanted titanium, and based totally on the discovery by Per-Ingvar that this titanium could be efficiently incorporated into the bone when osteoblasts starts to grow on into the rough area of the implanted titanium. The entire thing forms a functional and structural connection between the implant and the living bone.

Typical implant normally consists of a titanium made roughened surface screw. This roughened surface is treated by plasma spraying or sandblasting just to increase the integrated stuff of the implant. At edentulous jaw sites, dentist normally used to bore a pilot hole into the recipient bone, taking much care to avoid important structures. Pilot hole is expanded using wider drills. Dental surgeons take more care to ensure that oesteoblast cells are not getting damaged by overheating. A cooling substance called saline is sprayed over the bones which keeps the bones temperature below 46 degrees. Implant titanium screw can be a bit self tapping and is screwed to place exactly at a short torque so as this screw is not overloading the surrounding bone. Once this cover screw is placed in the bone then the operation site is allowed to cure for a few days or months for the occurrence of integration.

Temporary crown

After some days or months this implant is uncovered and a temporary crown and a curing abutment is placed to the implant.This makes the tooth gums to grow exactly in the right scalloped shape to exactly fit a natural tooth’s gums and then allows assessment of the end aesthetics of the re-established tooth. Once after this the dentist surgeon will construct a permanent crown and will be placed on the implant.

This is quiet an increasing strategy to safeguard bone with this less dental implant cost to decreases treatment times includes the dental implant placement into a extraction info site.

By Anant Kumar

Dental Implant : Procedures

Dental implants are created by putting a titanium implant into the jaw and connecting a ceramic crown once the jaw has fused the implant. Once this occurs, the dental implant is secured in place.

A wide variety of techniques can be utilized depending on the state of the implant site. One quick method can be completed in one single day, and can be done if the tooth is replaced in a healthy gum over good bone. Grafting or growing new bone is considered very complex and can take up to half a year or longer to do.

If a tooth needs to be extracted because it is decayed or damaged, as long as the surrounding gum is not damaged, the dental implant may be installed the same time as when the broken tooth is removed. This procedure will typically include a temporary crown and later replaced with a permanent crown once the bone fusion is complete. While heeling, it may be best to avoid certain foods after the dental implant has been installed.

Common dental implants occur through a process of stages. An implant is installed to the jaw bone and will need to fuse for roughly 3-6 months. Once this stage is complete, a post, known as an abutment, is put in the implant. Then the casts are removed off of the teeth and a crown made to match the existing tooth is adhered to the abutment.

When the bone structure is weak, one of the most complicated dental implant procedures can take place. In some cases a bone graft might be needed, or the bone can be stimulated to grow. The bone must be allowed to heal before the dental implant is installed. This can make the process very lengthy.

A custom fit plate can be placed between the jaw and gum if the bone structure is not in good condition for a dental implant. In order to obtain accurate measurements a CAT scan may be utilized or a cast cane be made by exposing the jaw.

Visit with your dentist to discuss which dental implant procedure is right for you. Your dentist could possibly perform the surgery at their office, or in more extreme cases, you may be referred to a periodontist.

By Chris Milller

Dental Implant : Information

Dental implants are ideal to replace broken or damaged teeth. Be advised that these dental implants can be a costly procedure as well as lengthy procedure.

Typically, dental implants have a starting cost around $1000 dollars for each tooth. If you have dentures, bridges, broken or damaged teeth dental implants could be a great investment for your smile. This procedure has very low failure rates. If a failure was to occur, chances are that there was an undetected bacterial infection during the install of the implant.

Timeframes needed to complete the dental implant procedure have a few contributing factors. One such factor is state of the jawbone. If the doctor needs more jawbone to work with, bone grafting may be required. This process must be completed and healed before the dental implant can be installed.

Osseointegration is a process where a titanium post is screwed into the jawbone. This must be left for 3-6 months so that the bone can fuse around it. A plate style implant may be used between the gum and the jawbone if the bone integrity is not ideal.

Once the healing has completed, the doctor will make a cast of the mouth. Then a ceramic tooth will be made to match the existing shape and color of the teeth.

It is always advisable to consult your dentist regarding dental implants. In some cases, they may be able to offer you a finance plan to have the procedure done. Be sure to ask any and all questions about dental implants with your.

By Chris Milller

Dental Implant : What to expect

Dental Implants are one of the fastest growing procedures in the dental industry as patients are now looking for a long term solution to replacing lost teeth and dental implants is the closest procedure you will find to replacing natural teeth.

But you may be thinking “ What to expect with Dental Implants ? “ before deciding on any dental implant procedure. The good news is that dental implants will normally have a 15-25 year life span for successful procedures, indeed the success rate for dental implants is very good with only about 5-10 % of patients rejecting any dental implant.

Many professionals will also offer to replace any failed dental implants but be sure to check with your consultant. Dental implants have received positive feedback with many patients believing that dental implants offer a more natural feel than bridging.

In common with most surgery, it is vital that your consultant does a full examination before any implant procedure. Patients who are effected by diabetic conditions, heavy smoking, stress or mental illness problems may find their dental implant success rate much lower. Please note this is also the case for many other simple medical procedures and not just linked to dental implants.

Dental implant surgery will take a different amount of time depending on the work required, all procedures should be performed under local anesthesia so it is a relatively pain free procedure.

It is important to remember that Dental Implant procedures are usually performed in stages lasting 3-6 months in many cases so it is not an overnight success although the long term benefits often outweigh the costs of dental implants which can range from $1000- $30,000 depending on the dental implants required.

Many people will also point out when asked “ What can I expect with dental implants ? “ is a return of self confidence as you no longer are reluctant to smile and expose your missing teeth ! Dental Implants should be a lifelong tooth replacement solution and in the long run will often be very cost effective.

By Kevin McNally

Dental Implant : Treatment and Caring for dental implants

When the team determines the number, type and location of the dental implants, the surgical phase of treatment can begin. From the diagnostic information the prosthodontist determines where the implants should be placed and will most often fabricate a guide for the surgeons from the models of the patient’s mouth. Implants are placed by the periodontist or oral surgeon and the individual teeth or bridgework are restored by a prosthodontist.
Most often, the implants replaced today only require one surgical procedure using a local anesthetic and sedative. However, there are occasions when the implants may require two surgical procedures. This is determined on an individual basis. After the procedure, the gums may be sore during initial healing, usually for seven to ten days. There may be additional soreness in the gums as the bone grows around the titanium posts until they are totally healed. This may take several weeks. If you have worn a bridge or false teeth before the first surgery, you may need to wait seven to ten days before the bridge or false teeth can be adjusted and lined with a soft material to eliminate pressure on the implants.

It takes as little as six weeks to as much as three to four months for lower jaw implants to heal completely and as little as six weeks to as much as six to nine months for those in the upper jaw. The healing time is determined on an individual basis and by the type of implant used. Following adequate healing, the prosthodontist will begin a series of appointments to fabricate the bridges or individual teeth that will be placed onto the titanium posts to replace the missing teeth.

Treatment time from placement of the implants until final restoration may take three to twelve months. Fees are based on the number of implants placed and the type of final restoration. They may range from $1,000 to $25,000 depending upon the patient's needs. The fees can be more accurately determined following the definitive diagnostic work-up by the prosthodontist and surgeon team members and will be dependent on many factors, such as patient needs, etc. Dental insurance may cover a portion of the treatment costs.

Caring for dental implants
Following your treatment, routine maintenance, recall evaluations and X-rays will be necessary to insure the long life of your restoration. These visits are not covered in the original fee. If the screws which hold the fixed bridge in place should break, they usually can be fixed. The implant can last a very long time but the teeth on the implants require routine maintenance and are subject to wear and tear just as any artificial substitute. (Breakage of the implant parts is rare but is usually repairable.) Thank you for considering the Oral and Maxillofacial Implant Center for your dental implant needs.

©2006 The University of Iowa College of Dentistry

Dental Implant : Oral and Maxillofacial Implant

Implants are very durable and will last many years. They require the same "maintenance" as real teeth, including brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups. Dental implants can help restore almost anyone's smile even if natural teeth have been lost to injury or disease.
A very common reason people consider implants is because a sliding lower denture makes chewing and talking difficult. Implants can also replace individual teeth and partial bridges in the upper and lower jaws. The majority of patients treated with dental implants experience a significant improvement in their ability to chew food and feel more comfortable.

Dental implants are permanent fixtures of titanium posts anchored to the jawbone and topped with individual replacement teeth or a bridge that screws or cements into the posts. Implant technology and materials used today in the United States were developed more than 30 years ago in Europe. The success rate for implants is remarkable: 98 percent for lower implants and 91 percent for upper implants.

Nearly everyone who can have routine dental care can successfully use implants. Many people who consider implants have removable, conventional dentures for lower and upper jaws, or have removable bridges that clasp to adjacent teeth. A permanent bridge supported by 2-4 metal posts in the lower jaw, accompanied by a complete conventional denture for the upper jaw, is a very common use for dental implants for people who wear complete dentures. Dental implants include strategically placed posts -- one, a few or several -- which serve as artificial tooth roots for a permanent bridge of non-removable, stable, natural appearing replacement teeth, in many cases when patients have many of their own teeth remaining.

Single teeth or a full arch of teeth, which have been extracted due to injury or disease and replaced with a removable bridge, can be replaced with dental implants. The teeth can be replaced by a non-removable, fixed bridge or by an overdenture that may help with facial support. Implants are very durable, will last many years, and require the same "maintenance" as real teeth, including brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups.

To ensure the best possible outcome, prospective implant patients are screened by a team of dental implant specialists at the UI College of Dentistry. The team includes either a periodontist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who implants the posts into the patient's mouth, and a prosthodontist who designs and makes the replacement teeth or permanent bridge. At the screening appointment, the specialists use an X-ray of the patient's mouth to determine if the bone in the jaw is adequate to hold the titanium posts. Models of the mouth may be made using a soft, pliable plastic compound.

The models accurately show where the gaps are located and provide measurements for a replacement tooth or a bridge. Treatment with dental implants is complicated and takes meticulous planning for best results. Additional X-rays and models of the mouth may be necessary.

©2006 The University of Iowa College of Dentistry

Dental Implant : A Brief History of Bicon

Building upon over twenty years of clinical success with the current Bicon implant design and the seventeen years of innovative research and development efforts which preceded its inception, Bicon’s dental implant system continues to lead the implant industry. In order to fully appreciate Bicon’s unique implant design, with its 1.5° bacterially-sealed* locking-taper implant to abutment connection, one should be aware of the history of the Bicon dental implant concept. Although the implant design may appear new to some dentists, its history goes back to a time well before 1982 — the year Professor Branemark visited Toronto to demonstrate what he had learned about the properties of titanium.

Bicon’s contiguous research history began in 1968 when Thomas Driskell, then a Senior Scientist at the Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio, obtained a research contract funded by the Dental Research Division of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command. The focus of the project was to develop a free-standing single tooth replacement with a cementable abutment component for acceptance of a cementable crown.

His early designs were fabricated from high density aluminum oxide, which studies had determined to be highly compatible as the implant material. The generally accepted medical opinion at that time was that all known materials used for orthopedic or dental implants would elicit a fibrous tissue encapsulation when implanted in bone. In 1971, Driskell was able to demonstrate histologically a direct bone to implant interface using a non-submergible free-standing tooth implant placed in fresh extraction sockets of Rhesus Monkeys: the phenomenon now known as osseointegration.

Driskell left Battelle in 1973 in order to pursue the development of human versions of his unique finned implant concept. First used in 1975, his Synthodont Dental Implant System, a one piece non-submergible design, offered the first truly successful free-standing single tooth implants to be used on a large scale for that purpose. They could be used for bridge abutments as well, and were also the first to offer the option of angled abutments. However, while offering excellent biocompatibility, ultimately, aluminum oxide ceramic which had always been used up to that point was determined by Driskell to be too brittle to be used for multi-component submergible implant designs which were beginning to gain acceptance. Thus, in 1981, one year before Professor Branemark’s visit to Toronto, Driskell developed the Titanodont Implant System — made from titanium alloy (Ti 6Al 4V ELI). Then, in 1985, he perfected his titanium implant design with the DB Precision Implant System, which is now known today as the Bicon Dental Implant System.

The Bicon Dental Implant System is now experiencing rapidly growing clinical acceptance throughout the world. The system’s unique and highly successful design concepts coupled with Bicon’s revolutionary clinical techniques continue to lead the trends of the implant market. The Bicon design has passed the test of time, while other systems are continuously undergoing revisions as they attempt to achieve the clinical benefits which have been inherent in Bicon’s design since 1985.

Dibart, S., Warbington, M., Su, M.F., Skobe, Z.

Dental Implant : What Is Treatment Like?

This procedure is a team effort between you, your dentist and your periodontist. Your periodontist and dentist will consult with you to determine where and how your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs. Click for more information about the treatment options described below.

Replacing a Single Tooth If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.

Replacing Several Teeth If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

Replacing All of Your Teeth If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

Sinus Augmentation A key to implant success is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed. The upper back jaw has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation can help correct this problem by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants.

Ridge Modification Deformities in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with inadequate bone in which to place dental implants. To correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose the bony defect. The defect is then filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve appearance and increase your chances for successful implants that can last for years to come.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply!
After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

The American Academy of Periodontology. All rights reserved

Dental Implant : What Dental Implants Can Do?

Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth.
Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
Types of Implants in Use Today
Endosteal (in the bone): This is the most commonly used type of implant. The various types include screws, cylinders or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures.

Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework's posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthesis. These types of implants are used for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and who have minimal bone height.
Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures or a Bridge
Every way you look at it, dental implants are a better solution to the problem of missing teeth.

Esthetic Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will ever know that you have a replacement tooth.

Tooth-saving Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health!

Confidence Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer freedom from the irksome clicks and wobbles of dentures. They'll allow you to say goodbye to worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes and glues.

Reliable The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Since periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, they are ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists have experience working with other dental professionals, they also have the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own.

Your dentist and periodontist will work together to make your dreams come true.

© The American Academy of Periodontology. All rights reserved

Dental Implants: Teeth That Look and Feel Like Your Own

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that a periodontist places into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth-saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.

Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth. You know that your confidence about your teeth affects how you feel about yourself, both personally and professionally. Perhaps you hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth. Maybe your dentures don't feel secure. Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is good news! Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! Under proper conditions, such as placement by a periodontist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.

The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.

© The American Academy of Periodontology. All rights reserved

Dental Implant : Overview

Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be your only options when replacing missing teeth. For some people, dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very natural. Surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments, implants fuse to the jawbone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture.

Implants offer stability because they fuse to your bone. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural and some people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes.

Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Copyright 1995-2006 American Dental Association.

Dental Implant : Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Since periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, they are ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists have experience working with other dental professionals, they also have the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own.

Your dentist and periodontist will work together to make your dreams come true.



What Is Treatment Like?
This procedure is a team effort between you, your dentist and your periodontist. Your periodontist and dentist will consult with you to determine where and how your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs. Click for more information about the treatment options described below.

Replacing a Single Tooth If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.

Replacing Several Teeth If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

Replacing All of Your Teeth If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

Sinus Augmentation A key to implant success is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed. The upper back jaw has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation can help correct this problem by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants.

Ridge Modification Deformities in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with inadequate bone in which to place dental implants. To correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose the bony defect. The defect is then filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve appearance and increase your chances for successful implants that can last for years to come.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply!
After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

© The American Academy of Periodontology. All rights reserved

Dental Implant : Teeth That Look and Feel Like Your Own

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that a periodontist places into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.

While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth-saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.

Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.You know that your confidence about your teeth affects how you feel about yourself, both personally and professionally. Perhaps you hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth. Maybe your dentures don't feel secure. Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is good news! Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! Under proper conditions, such as placement by a periodontist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.

What Dental Implants Can Do?
Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth.
Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
Types of Implants in Use Today
Endosteal (in the bone): This is the most commonly used type of implant. The various types include screws, cylinders or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures.

Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework's posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthesis. These types of implants are used for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and who have minimal bone height.
Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures or a Bridge
Every way you look at it, dental implants are a better solution to the problem of missing teeth.

Esthetic Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will ever know that you have a replacement tooth.

Tooth-saving Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health!

Confidence Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer freedom from the irksome clicks and wobbles of dentures. They'll allow you to say goodbye to worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes and glues.

Reliable The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

© The American Academy of Periodontology. All rights reserved