Dental Implants are one of the most exciting treatments in modern dentistry. Although the first implant was placed 40 years ago, the new developments in the field are making implants more reliable and easier than ever. Dental implants are designed to most closely resemble a natural tooth. The adjacent teeth are untouched, allowing easier hygiene and a more natural look.

Dental implants are essentially titanium anchors that are surgically placed into the bone. The bone actually attaches itself to the implant and has tremendous stability. After 3-6 months, an abutment and crown is then placed on the implant to look and feel like a natural tooth.

Why Do I Need Implants?
When a tooth is lost, the bone which used to hold that tooth in place is gradually lost. The adjacent teeth will collapse inward to fill the space and the opposing tooth will move upward or downward to fill the void. Over time problems can develop, such as impaction of food, sore gums, speech difficulties, or even bone fracture in older age as bones become more thin and brittle. Placing an implant helps preserve the bone and position of the natural teeth.

Implants have advantages in many situations over other treatments in that they:
• Conserve bone- When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone resorbs unless it is used. Implants help prevent this bone loss.
• Conserve tooth structure- No preparation of adjacent teeth is needed as compared to a bridge.
• Improve biting pressure and stability when used to support dentures or as a fixed bridge.
• Easier to clean- Flosses like a normal tooth.
• Longevity and reliability- Implants have become a very predictable procedure with high success rates.
• More predictable in cases where adjacent teeth have questionable prognosis for a bridge as the whole bridge may need to be replaced if one part of it fails.

The Procedure
The first step is to visit a general dentist. We will take the appropriate radiographs, make alginate models, and measure the gums. This is a great time to ask any questions. We will also decide if the implant can be placed at our office, needs referral, or if the site needs a bone graft. After surgical placement, you will wear a temporary for 3-6 months as the bone attaches to the implant. We will then take an impression and send it to the lab. They will fabricate a crown, which will require one more appointment to put on. As with any dental restoration, regular recalls are very important to clean the implant and make sure it is doing well. If you are missing one or more teeth, consider making an appointment to talk about the options.

Implants can benefit those with:
• A single missing tooth or a tooth that needs extraction
• Multiple missing teeth
• Loose dentures (Implants with dentures are now becoming the standard of care)

Dr. Erwin is trained in the placement and restoration of Dental Implants and can answer any questions you may have.

Here are some other resources if you would like to learn more about implants:

Dental Health Online