If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, dental implants are the way to go. Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own!

An implant is a tiny titanium alloy post that is placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing. The bone integrates with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Implants never decay and never need a root canal. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Implant Procedure

We know dental procedures can be intimidating, which is why our team spends a lot of time before your procedure explaining what you should expect. And, during the procedure itself, we start with the appropriate level of anesthesia.

The implant procedure?is 3 steps:

• implant placement ? replaces the root of the tooth
• the placement of the abutment
• placement of the implant crown ? top part of your tooth that you see when you smile

If you still have a single-rooted tooth it could be extracted and the implant could be placed immediately into the jawbone beneath the gum line, provided there is adequate adjacent bone. It will take five to six months for the implant to bond with the bone and integrate fully. When the implant is solid it can support the implant crown. The implant crown is the part that looks like your natural tooth.

Dental Implant Types and Procedures

Sinus Lift

In cases where there is inadequate bone in the maxilla (upper jaw), the sinus may need to be raised a millimeter?in order to provide adequate room for the placement of a dental implant. Bone graft?material and growth factors may be used in this process.

Note: A 3-D CAT scan x-ray may be necessary prior to the procedure in order for Dr. Nerio to determine the best sites for implant placement.