Dental implants have been around for a few decades. They are becoming a common option for replacing a single missing tooth or several teeth. In most cases they are the best option. There may still be a knowledge gap for some patients where dental implants are concerned. Let’s clear that up.
A dental implant actually starts with a titanium screw that replaces the root of your lost tooth. This new “root” is placed and left to heal for a few months. During this time the titanium screw bonds with the bone and increases in strength and stability. The second of the three parts of an implant is the abutment. This attaches to the implant and serves to secure the crown that replaces the part of the tooth you see in the mouth. If several teeth are being replaced, the abutment may anchor a bridge or denture. Imagine the difference between having a free-floating denture replacing your lower teeth or a lower denture that is attached to an implant that is anchored in your jaw.
So what’s involved in getting a dental implant? The first step is a careful evaluation. Dr. David Weber will take a 3D image of your teeth and jaw to help him evaluate whether you are a good candidate for an implant. He will look at the bone health and the health of adjacent teeth. Dr. Weber will then have a discussion with you regarding your implant and answer all of your questions. If the doctor and you decide a dental implant is the best option, we will set up your first appointment. Prior to that appointment Dr. Weber will use the 3D image of your jaw, a Cerec scan and a 3D printer to map out the perfect placement for the implant post and create a surgical guide. Dr. Weber will administer a local anesthetic and the post will be placed in the proper spot. This post will be given time to bond with the bone and become completely stable, after which the abutment will be placed. A beautiful crown that compliments your smile will be created using the Cerec cad cam technology. This crown will be attached to the abutment, giving you a brand new strong, stable, tooth!
While implants have been around for a long time and are widely considered the best answer for a missing tooth, the technology used to perform this procedure changes constantly. These improvements are making dental implants an increasingly easier and better choice. In many cases it is the best choice.