Dental Implants

What Is a Dental Implant?

An implant restoration is made of two or three parts that replace both the tooth root and crown. The actual implant is a titanium cylinder that is placed into the jawbone and acts as an anchor to support the dental prosthesis. The surgical placement is done by a periodontist or an oral surgeon, usually in the office with local anesthetic. After several months of healing, a single crown, bridge or denture is then secured to the implant(s) by a dentist, for a functional and esthetic result.

Replacing a Single Tooth

When a tooth needs to be extracted, an implant can often be placed at the same visit. If a temporary tooth is needed for esthetics, one will be fabricated in advance and given to the patient at the time of surgery. We usually allow 3 months for the implant to integrate (have bone grow around it). After this healing period we take an impression of the implant and approximately 2 weeks later place your new tooth, which has 2 parts: an abutment and a crown.

Replacing Multiple Teeth

More complex implant cases start with meticulous planning. After thoroughly examining your mouth and determining your goals, Dr. Shorr works closely with your surgeon and her laboratory to design your treatment. Careful assessment of the available bone, the condition of existing teeth, and future treatment needs are taken into account during this process. This step-by-step planning not only creates a successful result, but also insures that patients will be comfortable, functional and looking great during treatment.

Replacing all Teeth

When and entire arch of teeth needs to be extracted or replaced, Dr. Shorr can make this transition easy and painless. To learn more, please see Same-Day Smile™.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Unlike other dental restorations, implants are designed to be permanent. Once they have healed successfully, they are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Like natural teeth, they require meticulous oral hygiene, regular dental exams, and professional cleanings to help prevent infections and gum disease.

Implants are the only restoration that help to prevent bone loss in your gums. An implant can be used to replace a single tooth, or a set of dentures — with just a few implants! If you are in good overall health and have enough bone density, dental implants may be a good option for you.

Another important benefit of dental implants is that they help you retain the youthful fullness and contours of your face, especially your firm jawline. Your body produces more bone to fuse with the implant and the increased bone production fills out your facial contours. You won’t have the sunken, sagging look of someone who wears dentures for a long time.