Dental Implants

Dental Implants are the most effective way to replace missing teeth. If you don't smile or cover your smile because you are self conscious, give us a call and together we can determine whether a dental implant is best for you! Dental implants are also used in helping secure dentures and partials.

In the past 40 years dentistry has made a significant break through in the development and use of implants. A dental implant is made of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. Implants offer sturdy support so that single teeth, dentures, or bridges won't slip or shift in the mouth.

Single Tooth Implants

If you are missing one or more teeth there are many reasons to get it replaced:

You may not like the way the gap looks when you smile;
Missing teeth can affect how you speak;
A missing molar can affect how you chew;
When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the teeth around it can shift;
Bone loss can occur around the missing tooth, this can cause the remaining teeth to become loose over time;
Loss of teeth and bone can make your face sag and could cause you to appear older than you are.

What is involved in Implant Placement?

Placement of the Implant: Using our i-CAT we are able to capture a picture that allows Dr. Hopkins or Dr. Kunz to decide the best placement for your dental implant. Then they surgically places the implant into your jaw. It is common to have soreness and swelling after the procedure.
Healing Process: A dental implant gathers its strength from the jawbone that grows around it and holds it in place. This process could take several months.
Placement of the Prosthesis: For a single tooth implant a custom tooth is designed just for you, called a dental crown. It will look and feel like your other teeth.

*Implant procedures can vary, there are many different options for replacements using implants. If you want a permanent, natural feeling tooth replacement option, then dental implants are for you.

Are you a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

A doctor will sit down with you and determine if you are a good candidate for a dental implant. In most cases you are a good recipient if you:

are in good health. Some chronic illnesses may slow the healing process and prevent successful placement of implant.
have jawbone that can support an implant. If you have lost bone in your jaw you may still be able to get an implant. In some cases bone must be added this is done with a process called bone grafting.
don't use tobacco. Smoking and smokeless tobacco have been linked to a higher rate of implant failure.

Implants with Dentures

Bone Graft

A bone graft allows the missing bone to be built up and offers those with little bone a chance to permanently replace missing teeth. Bone substitutes ,like synthetic or natural, can be placed into the jawbone and underneath the gums. After 6-12 weeks, these materials stimulate new bone growth.

Implant Consent

Home Care Implant Instructions

Post- Op Instructions

Medication Instructions

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