Dental Implants

Dental implants 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. The implants 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, dental 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.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

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 either Drs. Churchill and Boscketti or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Dental Implant Procedure

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

For most patients, the placement of dental implants nowcan be done in a single surgical procedure without significant post-operative pain or the need for stitches. Often times, an implant can be placed at the same time as an extraction. A small piece of gum tissue is removed that is the same diameter of the implant and does not usually require the need for any incisions. The implant is then placed within your jawbone. For the first two to six months following surgery, the implants are allowed to gradually bond with the jawbone, while a small healing collar is placed to allow the gum tissue to forma proper contour. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. Drs. Churchill and Boscketti can then start making your new teeth. The abutments or attachments are connected to the implants once healing is complete. An impression must then be taken. The replacement teeth are then made over the abutments or attachments and your restorative dentist designs the final crown, bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics. The entire procedure usually takes two to eight months from start to finish and is dependent multiple factors.