Procedures
OMS Procedures
- Wisdom Teeth
- Orthognathic Surgery
- Facial Trauma
- Dental Implants
- Bone Grafting
- Platelet Rich Plasma
- Oral Pathology
- Sleep Apnea
- Cleft Lip & Palate
- Anesthesia
- Reconstructive Craniofacial
Cosmetic Procedures
Dental Implants
Dental Implant Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
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Why Dental Implants?
Renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.
A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than thirty-five years ago. With his pioneering research, Dr. Branemark opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.
Why select dental implants over traditional types of restorations?
There are several reasons: Why sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge a space? In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, not to mention that dentures that slip can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing.
Are you a candidate for dental implants?
If you are considering dental implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If your mouth is not ideal for dental implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The majority of dental implants and bone graft can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without IV anesthesia.
Do Dental Implants need special care?
Once the dental implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.
About Dental Implants
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. Please call us for a consultation if you are considering getting dental implants in the Philadelphia area.
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.
Drs. Bianchi, Nordone, Kanter, Huffman, Kern, & Schlesinger have received extensive training in implantology. They have been successfully placing dental implants and through continuing education, are abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.
Dental Implants 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 dental implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.
Dental Implants 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 dental 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, dental implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the dental 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 dental implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Your doctor will uncover the dental 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.
In some instances, dental implants can be placed at the time of tooth extraction ("immediate implants") and in some special circumstances, the crowns or teeth can be placed on top of the implants immediately ("immediate load") rather than having to wait for the above mentioned three to six month healing period. Which of the above techniques the doctor uses, is at the discretion of the doctor according to what is most appropriate for your particular situation.
It is important to understand that in some people, especially those that have been missing teeth for many years, often the bone and soft tissue that was supporting those missing teeth has now atrophied to the point that bone and/or soft tissue grafting may be necessary in order for the dental implant treatment to be successful. Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will discuss this with you during your consultation if necessary.