Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which 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. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

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

tooth graphic

Dr. Crump has received extensive training in implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1997 and through continuing education, is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.

Evaluation

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

We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.

Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Crump will uncover the implants and attaches 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.

Common Questions

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium cylinder that is surgically placed in a patient’s jaw to replace a missing tooth’s root. Because the dental implant is made of titanium, the surrounding bone is capable of osseointegrating, or forming a strong bond with it. This process renders the implant a permanent fixture in the mouth, and dental implants can remain in place for decades when patients take good care of them.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

In order to maximize the benefits associated with dental implants, patients must have adequate bone available at the implant site to support osseointegration. If osseointegration is not completed, there is an increased risk of dental implant failure. If a patient delays dental implant placement for some time after the tooth is initially lost, bone loss may occur, potentially compromising the stability of the dental implant. In these cases, a bone graft can help patients access this treatment. Your provider can tell you whether you are an immediate candidate for dental implant placement or whether a bone graft is recommended after evaluating your case.

How do implants prevent bone loss?

While a biological tooth’s root supports the crown, it also performs an important function of stabilizing the jaw bone. When appliances like conventional dentures or dental bridges are used to replace a tooth, they do not replace the complete tooth structure, including the root. Therefore, the jaw bone erodes over time and eventually the appliance begins to lose its fit. Because dental implants are functionally similar to biological tooth roots, they prevent this bone loss.

How many teeth can be replaced with dental implants?

A dental implant can be used to secure a single prosthetic crown, or multiple implants can anchor a dental bridge or even an entire denture. Therefore, patients with varying degrees of tooth loss can benefit from treatment with dental implants.

How much do implants cost?

The cost of dental implants varies widely depending on certain specific factors related to the patient’s case, such as the implant site, the number of implants being placed, quality of bone at the implant site and numerous other considerations. Associated costs may also include imaging, sedation or anesthesia and follow-up care, among others. Your provider can give you a more detailed cost estimate at your consultation.

 

For additional information on dental implants you are encouraged to visit these links:

www.biohorizons.com

www.nobelbiocare.com

www.osseo.org

www.straumann.com