What are Dental Implants?
Implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium. These
metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into
the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation
for artificial teeth. Small posts called “abutments” are then attached to the
implants, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors
for artificial replacement teeth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single
lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure,
preventing the bone deterioration, which occurs when teeth are missing.
Surgical Advances
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Amin is able
to place implants in a single stage. These implants do not require a second
procedure to uncover them but may require a minimum of six weeks of healing
time before placing the final teeth on them. Dr. Amin’s technique saves many
months of healing that are typically associated with dental implants. Temporary
teeth can be placed on the implants on the same day of the surgery. There are
even many situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a
tooth extraction further minimizing the number of surgical procedures. Advances
in dental implant technology have made it possible in select cases, to extract
teeth, and place implants with crowns at one visit. This process, called “immediate
loading” greatly simplifies the surgical process. Most patients experience minimal
disruption in their daily life. In some cases where significant bone deterioration
has occurred, we may have to delay placing the final teeth for 3-6 months.