Before development of dental implants, dentures or fixed bridges were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.
Dental implants 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 and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are changing the way people live. With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.
Dr. Klein has received extensive training in a variety of dental surgical procedures, including implantology. He is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.
Dental Implant Overview
Evaluation
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a clinical and radiographic examination. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Klein. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to be certain you are well informed, that you understand all of your options and that your procedures are successful.
We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. Our staff has worked hard to discover all appropriate ways to gain maximum insurance benefits that might be available to you.
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are metal anchors which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrudes through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary replacements for your missing teeth during this time. A soft diet might be necessary for the first few days after dental implant surgery.
Despite what you might think, implant patients do extremely well during and after the procedure! It is routinely done in the office with local anesthetic and sometimes a sedative pill. No IV's or general anesthesia are necessary. When patients are called the evening of surgery by Dr. Klein, most report minimal or no discomfort. Depending on how many implants were placed, a day of work might be missed, but rarely more than that.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Klein will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. After four to six weeks Dr. Klein will be able to start making your new teeth. Posts or abutments are attached to the implants and a mold or impression is taken. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or abutments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.
