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Dental Implants
Dental implants are becoming popular for a number of reasons. Implants provide a foundation for new teeth where natural teeth are missing or have been extracted. Implants offer the patient the opportunity to regain normal function and appearance without being forced to resort to a bridge or a denture.
At HealthPark, you can have your dental implant surgery and crown done all in one place! Dr. Rupa Hamal, Periodontist, provides the surgery - she will keep you comfortable as she places the implant and she will make sure you heal well. Dr. Valerie Cooper, Prosthodontist, or Dr. Steve Pierson or Dr. Charles Smith, General Dentists, will place the crown and makes sure your new crown fits nicely into your smile.
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 and have been used since the 1960's.
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 a root replacement. A dental implant crown is the replacement for the crown of the tooth. The first step of the procedure is surgical placement of the implant. Under regular dental anesthetic, the gum tissue is opened and the dentist places the implant into the jawbone. Then the tissue is then sutured closed. There is not often significant discomfort after this procedure. This process 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 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 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 is crafted. This restoration will be comfortable and cosmetically pleasing. Your completed implant will be fully functional, allowing you to chew, smile and talk as you did with your natural tooth.
To schedule your implant exam with Dr. Cooper, just call 667-2417.
FAQs:
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Am I healthy enough or too old for dental implants? There are some medical problems that may limit treatment with dental implants, however, the vast majority of patients are good candidates for implants. Regarding age, some patients are too young for implants, but advanced age is not a factor in implant success.
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What are same-day implants, or immediate implants? There are many ways to place dental implants. In some instances the implant can be placed at the same time that a tooth is extracted, or a temporary crown can be made on the same day that the implant is placed. In some cases, an implant denture can be placed on the implants immediately as well. There are important risks and benefits with these variations that should be discussed with your dentist.
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What kind of implant will I receive at HealthPark? We use standard root form implants made of titanium. This type of implant has the longest clinical use and highest success rates. Although there are hundreds of different implant manufacturers, we only use name-brand implants and implant parts from manufacturers that have carried out the most clinical research in the safety and effectiveness of their products.
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What if I am missing all or most of my teeth, what kind of implant treatment can I get? There are many ways to use dental implants for patients without teeth. In fact dental implants were first developed to aid patients who were unhappy with traditional dentures. Dental implants have tremendous benefits to patients currently wearing or needing dentures. Implants can be used to help stabilize removable dentures, or to totally support a non-removable denture, or bridge.
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Do implants always work? Some patients are at higher risk for problems with implants, your dentist can discuss your personal risk factors with you. Depending on the area of the jaw, implants usually have a success rate of greater than 90%. Should an implant not work, it can be removed and another one placed with a high success rate. Implants cannot get decay, however, they can get gum disease like natural teeth, so you will need to take care of your implants just like the rest of your teeth.
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What if I was told before that I cannot get dental implants? There may be a very valid reason for this, however, techniques and materials have been developed for many patients who were not good candidates for implants in the past. Some examples of improved technology include bone grafting, CT scans and guided surgery, sinus grafting, and alternative ways of restoring the implants. At HealthPark we will strive to provide you with the best treatment options for your situation whether that includes implants or not.
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What kind of training/education has the dentist had who will place or restore my dental implant? Implant education has recently become a part of the curriculum of most dental schools. Many dentists have additional training in the form of continuing education courses. Several specialty programs require extensive education and clinical practice in implant treatment. Oral surgeons, Periodontists, and Prosthdontists are examples of such specialists. At HealthPark we utilize each other’s unique skills and knowledge so that we can coordinate your treatment easily.
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