Dental
implant therapy has become the preferred approach for "permanently"
replacing one or more missing teeth. This remarkable advancement
in dental treatment significantly enhances the quality of life by
restoring health, function and appearance.
WHAT
IS A DENTAL IMPLANT:
A dental implant is a biocompatible screw-like titanium "fixture"
that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It acts as a tooth
root subsitute. An implant abutment and permanent crown
are ultimately attached to the implant by your restorative doctor.
EXAMINATION
AND TREATMENT PLAN
During the examination process, the overall condition of the mouth
will be clinically and radiographically evaluated by Dr. Ekelman.
A full assessment for implant surgery would include your peridontal
health and status, quality and quantity of underlying bone, position
of teeth, occlusion and cosmetic desires.
SEQUENCE
OF EVENTS DURING IMPLANT TREATMENT
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STEP 1:
Implant Placement
With
the use of local anesthesia,the surgeon lifts the gum tissue
away and performs a precise and gentle technique to place the
dental implant fixture into the jawbone. The gum is repositioned
and sutured. Most patients experience no major discomfort after
the procedure. |
| • |
STEP
2: Osseointegration Period
The dental implant fixture will be left undisturbed in the jawbone
for a period of four to six months. During this healing phase,the
bone attaches to the implant and OSSEOINTEGRATION takes place. |
| • |
STEP
3: Abutment Connection
Once osseointegration of the implant is complete, the surgeon
exposes the top of the implant and attaches a post or abutment.
This abutment passes through the gum and ultimately supports
the new tooth. |
| • |
STEP
4: FINAL Prosthetic Treatment
Your dentist will take an impression of the implant and will
work with the lab technician to make the new implant-supported
tooth The final prosthetic tooth can be screwed to place or
cemented. The new tooth is firmly anchored into the bone and
gums, and will look and feel just like a natural tooth. |
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