Implants

Dental implants are one of the greatest advancements in dentistry. Dental implants have the capability to serve as substitutes for natural tooth roots. These devices fit into the jaw bone and are considered both safe and effective to support dentures, caps or crowns and fixed bridges. These implants are not new. The ancient Egyptians utilized the implant, making their implants out of jade, sapphire and ivory. Today, dental implants are both 90% successful in the upper and lower jaws. Tens of thousands are placed every year. Implants are made of a special metal called titanium that is compatible with the bone of the jaw. In fact, this bone likes titanium so much that it actually fuses with the implant. The implant is a small post that protrudes from the gum tissue. Several of these are placed based on the amount of space that needs to be filled.

Crowns or bridges are placed on top of these implants. Your family dentist and dental hygienist are part of a group of specialists that form the implant team. These team members, in conjunction with the maxillofacial surgeon or other specialist, will decide if you are a good candidate for an implant. Implant placement usually takes a number of appointments over a three-month period of time. There are two surgeries involved: one to place the implant into the bone and one to uncover the top of the implant. Then the general dentist will place the prosthesis on the implant. Once the implant is complete, you can start using it immediately with no discomfort. Implants have a 95% or better success rate. This success rate is based upon the patient's ability to provide excellent home care of the implant. Implants require immaculate plaque removal. With superior brushing and flossing, your implant can last a lifetime.