If you lose one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, or another cause, there is hope. 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. 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. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes.

The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for prosthetic teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for the new teeth. Dental Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental Implants Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination including a CT scan and health history. During these consultation visits, Dr. Nasr or Dr. Sáenz will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

The Dental Implant Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgical procedure. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors, such as hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed. Most patients receive their final restorations after three to six months. If your implant is in the esthetic zone you will wear a fixed or removable temporary until final restoration.

When the bone hardness is not adequate and bone grafting is required the dental implants are left beneath the surface of the gum. After the implant has bonded to the jawbone for three to six months, Drs. Nasr or Sáenz will uncover the implant and attach a small healing collar. After two weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements 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.

What Types of Implant 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, ball or locator attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by your dentist.

Single Implant

Implant Supported Bridge

Fixed Hybrid Denture

Removable Implant Supported Overdenture ( 2 videos)

Caring for a Dental Implant

Caring for an Implant Supported Bridge