Services

Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look 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 themselves are titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds around the titanium posts creating a strong foundation. Artificial teeth are then constructed as crowns, bridges, or overdentures. They are connected to the implants either by cementing them if they are crowns or bridges, or by clips or snaps if they are overdentures.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If you feel implant dentistry is a choice that you want to look into, we ask that you undergo a special dental/radiographic examination and health history. Your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr.Katz. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Procedure

PHASE I

Dental implants are titanium posts, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For the first three to six months following surgery, the bone bonds closely around the implants. Temporary or provisional teeth are fabricated for the patient and provide adequate function and esthetics. You should be able to eat, work, and socialize during this time.

PHASE II

After your bone bonds closely around the implants, the second phase begins. Special molds or impressions are taken along with other jaw related records. The different components of the implant restoration are fabricated in the laboratory.

*Single tooth implants

If it is a single tooth implant then the progression is similar to making a crown for a tooth. The dental lab, using the impression models, fabricates the crown. Any final adjustments are done in the dental office before it is permanently fixed to the implant.

*Multiple tooth implants, Fixed or Removable Overdentures

If the restoration involves multiple teeth, usually there are a few appointments set up where we try in the “connector” parts that we fabricate. These “connector” parts are the elements that attach the teeth to the implants. As we get closer to the delivery appointment, the final contour, shape and character of the teeth are established. At the delivery appointment, minor adjustments are made and final instructions on care and maintenance are given. And then the teeth are yours! The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Patients carry on with their normal daily life during this time period.