Dental Implants
Dental implant is the best solution
for a missing tooth (or teeth). Dentists all over the world recommend this procedure
to patients because it is simple, virtually painless, and efficient. The main advantage
of dental implants is being able to perfectly replace lost teeth. The patient won't
notice the difference between his natural teeth and the implant. It avoids having
to wear prosthesis, and with proper care it will last forever.
Dental Implants are fabricated roots that are placed in the jawbone. The procedure
doesn't hurt, however the patient may experience discomfort in the following days.
The pain can be managed with common analgesics. Dental implants can enhance your
self-esteem by providing a healthy and brighter smile that leaves you with an improved
self-confidence.
Dental Implants FAQ's
- What is the minimum age that you will place an implant?
I have a patient who doesn't have 7 and 10 and he is 19. I would prefer to wait
but what is the rule?
There really isn't a rule... It is all about life expectancy of the implant. Most
of the guys out here will treat that case in a hot minute. I like to wait until
the patient is at least in their twenties so that they are old enough to make their
own decision. For me the real issue is that I can make something that is conservative
like a sculpture bridge that looks nice and saves the majority of the abutment teeth
but replaces the missing. That way the patient is able to take advantage of advancement
in technology. I just hate putting in a permanent implant in a kid. I always treat
my patients like they are my own...that way I can sleep at night.
If for some reason they are going to have it done with or without me... then I counsel
them on these issues and make them sign an informed consent. Physiologically, there
are issues regarding growth plates and skeletal sutures. If the implant is placed
in an area that crosses a suture or growth plate, it will inhibit articulation of
the bones that make up the suture. This could lead to health problems. Crossing
a growth place will lock the bone together and create unilateral asymmetrical growth.
So, it is a good idea if you are thinking about working on a young patient to have
an orthodontist confirm with cephlometric measurements that the growing process
of the scull is complete.
- What is the proper care for Dental Implants?
We have done our best to provide to you the highest quality service available, the
continuing success of the implant and prosthesis is up to you. Please visit us for
examination, scaling, and polishing at least once every six months and clean the
implant thoroughly daily.