Dental Implants
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants can be used to provide support for the replacement of one tooth, multiple teeth or support a denture. Implant supported teeth can be cemented, screw-retained, or removable and can be made attractive, stable, and comfortable for almost any patient. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.
Dental implants come in various shapes and sizes and have different types of surfaces. The actual implant selection will depend on a variety of factors related to your specific treatment needs, and the most appropriate one(s) will be used.
If you are considering dental implants, your mouth will be examined thoroughly and your dental and medical history will be reviewed to ensure that dental implants are appropriate for you. X-ray images of your jaws will be taken to evaluate your jawbone and to determine if it will accommodate implants. Dr. Wolfrom will help determine if additional tests or procedures are needed to place your implants properly.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Implants are a team effort between the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and your Dentist. While Dr. Wolfrom performs the actual implant surgery using local anesthesia or sedation, the restorative dentist fabricates and adapts the prosthesis to the implant.
The number of implants needed varies depending on the clinical situation. Bone and tissue grafting may be needed at the time of a dental extraction and prior to the placement of dental implants. There are situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction. For certain select cases, the placement of an implant and delivery of a temporary crown may be done at the same visit. With the assistance from your restorative dentist, Dr. Wolfrom will discuss these options at your personal implant consultation appointment or at the time of your extraction.
Dental implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to four months following surgery, the implants are gradually bonding with the jawbone. The length of healing time will be determined by a variety of factors. Follow-up care is provided to ensure that your mouth is healing well and to determine when you are ready for the restorative phase of your treatment.