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Dental Implants
Dental implants are becoming more popular in today’s world for a number of reasons. Implants provide patients a foundation for new restorative teeth where natural teeth are missing or have been extracted. The implant offers the patient the opportunity to regain normal function of the tooth without being forced to resort to a bridge or a removable partial denture. Dr. Rankin will discuss your options and will refer you to either an oral surgeon or a periodontist (gum specialist) if an implant is being considered. Moderate to heavy cigarette smoking is a contraindication to implants.
Benefits
· The implant will osseointegrate (bond) with the existing bone.
· The new implant will support your teeth firmly and safely.
· Your new implants are aesthetically pleasing.
· You will no longer have pain during talking or eating.
· The dental implant should prevent progressive bone atrophy.
· Implants have a proven scientific basis and are usually successful in the right candidate if he/she takes care of them.
Procedure
The tooth structure has two main sections, the root and the crown. The root is the section of the tooth that is below the gumline. A dental implant acts as the restorative for this section of the tooth. The metal implant acts as an anchor in the jawbone. The first step of the procedure is surgical placement of the implant by the surgeon or periodontist. Under regular dental anesthetic, the gum tissue is opened and the dentist places the implant into the jawbone. When this is achieved, the tissue is then sutured closed. There is not usually significant discomfort with this procedure.
This implant will be left untreated for a period of 3-6 months. During this time, the bone will grow around the implant in a process called osseointegration. A removable crown may be utilized during this time period to allow for chewing and to preserve the cosmetic appearance..
The next step in the process is for Dr. Rankin to attach an abutment to the tooth. This is achieved by exposing the top of the implant and placing the abutment. This is the part of the implant that will support the final crown.
Finally, an impression is taken of the implant and a final restoration crown is crafted.