An integral component of successful standard dental implants is the quality and quantity of bone where the implant is to be placed. The process of tooth removal can often leave inadequate height or width (or both) of supporting bone. This may necessitate placement of a bone graft in the future implant site. A bone graft is made of either synthetic bone or human donor tissue. This procedure known as, “site preservation”, will help insure a strong and long lasting implant supported restoration.
With standard dental implants, the tooth root implant, which is a small post made of titanium, is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As your jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. The healing process takes about three months.
Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is attached to the implant to securely hold the new tooth or teeth. To make the new tooth or teeth, we take impressions of your teeth, to create a model of your bite (which captures all of your teeth, their type, and arrangement). The new tooth or teeth are fabricated by our dental laboratory based on this model. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is then attached to the abutment.
There are many advantages to implants over more conventional treatments. Implants look and feel natural, and make eating and talking easier. A single implant can replace your missing tooth without the need for a bridge. In addition, implants can provide support for all types of dentures. Because the implants are secured within your jawbone, they are as stable as your real teeth and can prevent bone loss, which will occur when you lose a tooth.
Our staff Periodontist, Dr. Wendy Burstein, specializes in implants and all phases of periodontal (gum) surgery. Call us today at 410-666-9266 to set up a consultation to see if standard implants are right for you.
