Dental Implants

Dental implants have revolutionized the world of dentistry! In the vast majority of cases, they are the most ideal tooth-replacement option. Dental implants can be used to replace single missing teeth (as shown in picture A), or several can be linked together to replace an entire segment or even an entire arch (as shown in picture B).

What are dental implants?

Dental Implants Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

Dental Implants Presentation

A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. Implant-supported replacement teeth also have two similar parts:
1) The “implant” itself is much like the root, except that it is made of titanium. Titanium is a time-tested material used by surgeons for all kinds of purposes, such as artificial joints and bone plates for fractures (such as jaw fractures). The implant is placed in the bone by the oral surgeon and will be entirely below the surface of the gums.
2) The implant “crown” is the visible part, which is used to smile with and chew food. It is built on the strong foundation of the titanium implant in the bone.

After the surgeon places the dental implant under the gums, time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.  A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

A smiling elderly man

“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Robertson is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of eight weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Robertson performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.  The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the replacement teeth that will connect to the implant(s) under the gums. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.