Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. After implant placement, the person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything they want, and can smile with confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

Implants are tiny titanium fixtures that are surgically placed where teeth are missing. These fixtures act as tooth root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

The Surgical Procedure

Dr Konys performs all of his implant surgery in our state-of-the-art office. Most are placed easily under local anesthesia. However, for our anxious patients, IV sedation is also available.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed where your teeth are missing. For the first three to four months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. Sometimes a small fixture called a “healing cap” is placed at the time of implant surgery. This helps the gums form a nice collar that your new tooth will eventually protrude from. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Konys will remove the healing cap, uncover the implants, and take a series of impressions of your mouth. These are sent to a lab that uses a special computer to custom-fabricate the final post that your new teeth will attach to. This computer assures that the final posts are always placed in a perfect position, every single time. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen. The entire procedure usually takes four to five months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

What Types Of Prosthesis Are Available?

A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of complete prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball in socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.

Why Select Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of Restorations?

There are several reasons why an implant-supported tooth is preferred over other traditional ways of replacing teeth. These include the fact that implant-supported teeth are fixed (cemented) in place, look and function like natural teeth, and do not require the destruction of perfectly good teeth like a traditional “crown” or “bridge”. But perhaps the best thing is the fact that implant-supported teeth are decay-proof, and thus, should last longer than anything cemented to a natural tooth.

Are You A Candidate For Implants?

Most people are good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Konys will examine your mouth and review your medical and dental history. In addition, we will use specialized three-dimensional, in-office imaging to assess your bone quality and quantity to determine the best treatment for you.