Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that 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 are 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.

Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. Livaditis or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Implant Procedures

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Additional components are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These components provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.  Implant supported dental prostheses may be implemented in several ways depending on the type of final replacement and the condition of the mouth at the outset.  Described below are some approaches:

Implant insertion and immediate restoration of the implant:  A tooth may be extracted and an implant inserted in the site during the same visit.  An interim crown may be placed on the implant at the same visit while the implant integrates (tsite heals and matures). The final crown can be fabricated and inserted shortly afterward.  The same procedure can be applied when a tooth has been missing for some time provided adequate bone and proper form is available.

Implant insertion and delayed restoration of the implants:  In other situations, implants may be inserted in the desired sites, the implants and surrounding bone are allowed to integrate over a period of weeks, and the final restorations (crowns or bridges) are fabricated after “osseointegration” of the implants.  Implants are sometimes buried under the gums during healing and are exposed by the surgeon at the appropriate time.  After osseointegration, the soft tissues (gums) around the implants are contoured in preparation for the final restorations.

The scientific and commercial media introduces many terms and descriptions, such as:

      “Teeth in a day”      “Bar Attachment Denture”   “Hybrid Bridge”    “Overdenture” and many more….

Consultation with an experienced prosthodontist is invaluable to explain options available to you and to clarify the benefits and limitations as they apply to your specific set of conditions. Dr. Livaditis will provide you with the essential information to allow you to make the correct choice.

Implants may be used utilized in several methods. For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first two to three months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics. After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Dr. Livaditis can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.