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Implants
Implants are used
to replace a single tooth, many teeth on one side, or used to
support an entire fixed or removable bridge replacing all the upper
or lower teeth. The most common implant used today is the
osseintegrated implant. This implant is placed in a hole which is
drilled into the patient's lower or upper jaw. Depending on the
number of teeth being replaced, one or more implants are placed in
the bone. If neccessary a substrucure is fabricated and then a
crown, bridge or denture is securely fastened to the substructure or
implant.
Implants are
useful for patients that have tried but can't wear conventional
dentures. Patients that lost a tooth, have two teeth with no or
small fillings adjacent to the hole and don't want to cut the teeth
down to make a bridge, would also make good candidates. In either
case the patient has to commit to good oral hygiene. Implants are
usually placed in outpatient settings and have a healing phase of 6
weeks to 9 months. There is a
significant investment involved to place the implants as well as
restore them. They can be placed by periodontists, oral surgeons, or
trained general dentists. So make sure to keep the implanted areas
healthy, by brushing and flossing daily.
Permanent Tooth
Replacement for Comfort, Confidence and Cosmetics
Have you, like many people, lost one or
more of your teeth? If so, you may be suffering from physical
discomfort, difficulty in eating or a change in your appearance.
Today, technological advances in dental implants have made it
possible to improve these conditions. Implants are a safe and proven
way to restore your mouth to health, comfort and beauty. Best of
all, they feel and look just like your own
teeth. The implants today have a proven success rate.
If you have lost any of your teeth or wear any type of denture,
dental implants may offer many benefits. You will be able to eat
easily, comfortably and confidently. You will notice an improvement
in your appearance. And you will no longer be inconvenienced by
loose-fitting dentures.
What are Dental
Implants?Dental
implants are small titanium screws or cylinders that are placed in
the bone of the upper or lower jaw. The implants bond with the bone
and act as an anchor for replacement
teeth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single
lost tooth or many missing teeth. Several options are available to
restore your lost teeth; Drs. Widen can discuss these with you in
detail. Patients who have chosen implant supported teeth
report that they are happy and comfortable for the first time since
the loss of their original teeth.
Who Should Have Dental
Implants?Anyone
missing teeth is a candidate for dental implants. A consultation
with Dr. Widen will clarify what type of treatment you require.
Some cases can be relatively simple. All facets of your implant
treatment will be discussed with you in detail after a thorough
diagnosis is made.
Your diagnosis for dental implant
treatment will include x-rays, study models, measurements, clinical
exams and an evaluation of your medical conditions.
Why Are Dental Implants A Good
Choice?Dental
implants are more stable and more "real" feeling than loose
dentures. Implants are a proven restorative option with a long
clinical history. Their success rate is higher today than ever
before. Long-term studies indicate that dental implant patients can
enjoy the daily benefits of their implants even 25 years after
placement. As many as 50 million people are missing one or
more teeth. Dental implants provide excellent results that greatly
reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss.
Don't suffer from tooth loss any longer. Ask Dr.
Widen how you can personally benefit from dental implants.
How Are Dental Implants
Placed?Implant
restorations are completed in two phases. The first phase involves
the surgical placement of the implant or implants in your jaw. This
is performed in Dr. Widen's office (Straumann ITI Type Implant) or
by an implant specialist. It is performed with state of the art
equipment in an aseptic environment. The placement of the implants
is very precise. Once they are in place, depending on the type of
implant placed, either they are totally or partially covered
(Straumann ITI Type Implant) by your gum tissue for a 3-6 month
healing period. During this time, the implant will bond to the bone
permanently. Since the jaw bones have only a small number of
nerves, the placement procedure will cause you only minor discomfort
and you should heal quickly. Dr. Widen will arrange for you to be
comfortable throughout the waiting period. You can even wear your
own dentures until your treatment is
completed. The second phase involves constructing the
finished replacement tooth or teeth (the prosthesis). When the
healing phase is complete, the top of the dental implants are
uncovered in a quick and simple procedure (This step is not
necessary with the Straumann ITI Type Implant.) Dr. Widen will
then use the implants as a solid foundation for restoring your
teeth. Dr. Widen will recommend which type of
restoration is best for you. Options include crowns for single tooth
replacements, bridges for multiple missing teeth and securely
retained dentures. Each option will be carefully evaluated for your
individual case.
Dental implants can improve
the way you look and feel about yourself. Ask us for more
information about Dental Implants today.
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