Dental Implants

Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth!  Once completed, they look, feel, and function like a natural tooth so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence! 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small 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 artificial teeth.  

The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves a single surgical procedure, though in some cases there may be a second, smaller surgical procedure required after healing is complete. 

First, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone with local anesthesia.  For a single implant the whole procedure usually takes under an hour and is easily done in our office.   

Typically, we will place a small cap that protrudes through the gums that remains attached to the implant during the healing stage.  Once we verify healing is complete, your dentist will remove the cap, and place your abutment and crown so you can enjoy your new tooth!  In some cases we will let the implants heal completely under the gums, and then have you return for a simple uncovering procedure to place the healing cap about 5 months later.  Similar processes are used to replace multiple missing teeth, ask your doctor about your treatment options. 

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and your restorative dentist.  Dr. Nissenbaum, Dr. Balint or Dr. Kalish performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.   Your dentist then fits and makes the permanent replacement crown or teeth once the implant has osseointegrated.  Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis (flipper) needed during the implant process.

Recovery time is typically 1-3 days of discomfort in the area, though minor discomfort may persist for up to 1 week, this can be treated effectively with Advil (ibuprofen) and/or Tylenol (acetaminophen).

Surgical Advances

Recent advances in dental implant technology allow Drs. Nissenbaum, Balint or Kalish to place immediate implants.  This means the implant is placed during the same appointment the tooth is extracted.  This procedure is not right for every patient or tooth so ask your surgeon if it is right for you!

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 a variety of factors. 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.

Drs. Nissenbaum, Balint or Kalish performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite. 

Why Dental Implants?

Dental implants can vastly improve your quality of life, and allow you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.  When you lose several teeth – whether it’s a new situation or something that you have lived with for years – chances are you’ve never become fully accustomed to missing such a vital part of yourself.  Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than 35 years ago. With his pioneering research, Dr. Branemark opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.

Why Choose Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of Restorations?

There are several reasons: A dental bridge involves grinding away a portion of the adjacent teeth so crowns can be placed to bridge the empty space.  In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, not to mention dentures that slip can be uncomfortable or embarrassing.

Are You A Candidate For Implants?

Come see us for a consultation!  At this appointment we will review your medical and dental history, do an exam and obtain CBCT (3D X-ray) imaging so we can formulate your treatment plan.  We will then provide and discuss your options so you can make the best decision for your oral health!

What Type Of Anesthesia Is Used?

The majority of dental implants and bone grafting can be performed in our office under local anesthesia.   IV sedation is also an option in some cases, ask your surgeon about this during your consultation. 

Do Implants Need Special Care?

Once the implants are in place they will serve you well for many years if you take good care of them and keep your mouth healthy. Good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dentist/hygienist is key to the long term success of dental implants.