DENTAL IMPLANTS

A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used in solutions for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.

WHO PLACES DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Dr. Thomas is a specialist in implant dentistry with the most advanced training available.   With over 20 years of implant placement experience, his professional and clinical expertise provides patients with the the best dental implant care possible.   

WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS?

There are a number of reasons why you should consider a dental implant:

Without the root structure of a natural tooth present, the jawbone can shrink. This shrinkage will make your face look older than it is.  There are no loose parts to worry about losing. The dental implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is needed after placement. Normally, it will serve its owner for life.

HOW MUCH DO DENTAL IMPLANTS COST?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of dental implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have Dr. Thomas examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, he will recommend the treatment that is best for you and work with your restorative dentist to obtain the best possible treatment option for you.

WHO IS A DENTAL IMPLANT CANDIDATE?

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factor is the amount of available bone.  Dr.  Thomas is the very best person to evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

IS OLD AGE A PROBLEM?

Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age.  If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate dental implant treatment. We will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS OVER DENTURES OR A DENTAL BRIDGE?   

• Improved appearance: When you lose the entire tooth - crown and root - shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental implants can stop this process. A traditional denture or dental bridge doesn’t.
• Preserve natural teeth: With traditional dental bridges, teeth adjacent to missing teeth are normally ground down to be used as anchors for a dental bridge. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth.
• Permanent solution: There are no loose parts to worry about losing. The dental implant is stable and comfortable. Normally, with proper home care and professional maintenance, a dental implant(s) will serve its owner for life.
  

Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants often improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.

WILL MY NEW TEETH LOOK NATURAL?

When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations. Often they are hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.

• Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?  Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth.

• How much time is required for a dental implant placement?  Today, state-of-the-art guided surgical techniques are convenient alternatives to place dental implants and allow you to have the dental implant placed in a single session.  

The conventional process can take from three to four months. First, Dr. Thomas places the dental implant, which is left for three to four months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, you may be given a temporary prosthesis until time for the permanent restoration.

The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your dental health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits to our office throughout the treatment period.

• Is the treatment painful?  With any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Placing one implant normally causes less discomfort then placing several. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Dr. Thomas will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur.  

• How will I feel after the treatment?  It is normal to have some bruising and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. 

• How will I care for my dental implants?  Your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth. Brush and floss as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist. In addition, dental implant patients should see Dr. Thomas for an annual examination with xrays.