Denver dentist, Dentist in Denver, CO

Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming more popular in today’s dental society for a number of reasons. Implants are utilized to offer 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 denture.

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 will prevent progressive bone atrophy.

· Implants have a proven scientific basis.

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 restoration has 3 main sections. The implant itself replaces the actual root of the tooth. It is made of titanium and when placed properly, it bonds directly to the bone. The other sections of the implant restoration are the abutment and the actual crown. The abutment is screwed into the top of the implant and is designed to hold the crown. The crown is almost like the crown design that we use to restore a natural tooth.

Step One:Implant Placement

The first step of the implant procedure is the surgical placement of the implant. Under regular dental anesthetic, the dentist surgically places the implant in the jawbone. A healing cap is placed to seal the top of the implant. Usually sutures are used to finish the procedure. There is usually not significant discomfort with this procedure. This step can take from 1-3 hours depending on the number of implants being placed.

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 appliance may be utilized during this time period to preserve the cosmetic appearance. We request that patients refrain from chewing on the new implant.

Step Two:Impression and Fabrication of the Crown

When osseointegtration is verified as complete, the restoration process begins. An impression is made of the implant and a final restoration is crafted by our professional dental laboratory technicialns. The laboratory technicans will usually design the abutment in the laboratory to assure the proper fit of the implant crown. Your restoration will be fitted and adjusted so that it looks and feels natural in your mouth. Your completed implant will be fully functional, allowing you to resume normal activities.