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 themselves are tiny titanium, ceramic, or zirconia posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium ceramic, or zirconia, 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.
Dr. Keller and Dr. Tibbs have received extensive training in Implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1988. With ongoing continuing education, he keeps abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.
Evaluation
We ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, the doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.
Procedures
Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are attached to the implant to provide stable anchors in the gums for replacement teeth.
First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three months following surgery, the implants are at or beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary prosthesis allowing you to eat a soft diet during this time.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Keller or Dr. Tibbs will secure the connector (abutment) in place and then you will see your restorative dentist the same day for final impressions to make your new teeth. Patients do not have to experience any disruption in their daily life and find the waiting time goes very quickly.
Immediate Teeth!
It is becoming increasingly routine to place fabricated teeth immediately upon the implant connector (abutment). Immediately after the surgical appointment or within 24 hours of implant surgery, patients are leaving the restorative dentist’s operatory with fixed teeth!
Treatment planning consists of well orchestrated appointments between the restorative doctor and the surgeon.
Prior to surgery: Restorative doctor takes impressions of the upper and lower jaw arches to establish the dimensions of your bite. These models can then be used to have the laboratory construct a bite registration device and a surgical guide.
Surgery: Extractions, if needed are done at the time the implant fixtures are placed. The post that is above the gum line on which the fabricated tooth is cemented is placed at this time (abutment). Impressions are then taken of the newly placed implants with the registration device that has been constructed . Protective caps are placed over the abutments and the patient has a scheduled appointment with the restorative doctor.
Immediate teeth! Amazing!
