What are 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. 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. Dental implant use has been exploding in recent years and for good reason. They are among the most predictable and long lasting methods to replace missing teeth. Dental implants allow for a missing tooth to be replaced without having to grind down the adjacent teeth. They act to stimulate the bone where a tooth has been lost and prevent bone resorption in these areas.
Dr. Scharf has received extensive training in implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1988 and through continuing education, is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry. As recognition of his expertise in the area of dental implants, Dr. Scharf is a faculty member in the Department of Implant Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry. As Clinical Assistant Professor, he trains dental specialists in placing and restoring dental implants.
There are 4 phases to implant treatment. They are:
- Diagnosis/ Treatment Planning,
- Implant Placement
- Implant Uncovering
- Prosthetic Phase (a.k.a. making the teeth)
- Maintenance Phase
1. Diagnosis and treatment planning.
Many patients are concerned because they want dental implants, but do not know if they are a good candidate for implants. This will be determined by Dr. Scharf and your dentist. 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 In addition to standard dental radiographs, Dr. Scharf uses a highly sophisticated imaging program called Simplant. Simplant allows Dr. Scharf to analyze CAT scan data directly on the computer and simulate implant placement before any treatment takes place. This sophisticated technology allows Dr. Scharf to determine your body’s ability to support a dental implant before any treatment takes place. He can analyze bone density and volume very accurately. This helps to assure many years of comfort and function from your dental implants.
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Following the diagnostic phase Dr. Scharf will work closely with your dentist to formulate your treatment plan. He will then present his findings to you during a treatment conference. 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.
2. Implant Placement
The implants are titanium posts that are inserted into the bone. Implants act as tooth root substitutes. The implant only replaces the root of the missing tooth. The gum and bone is made numb with a local anesthetic. The implant is gently inserted into the bone where it will undergo a process called osseointegration. This means that the bone grows onto the surface of the implant. This takes between 6-12 weeks in most instances depending on the condition of the bone. Sometimes the implants are submerged under the gum during this healing phase. Sometimes they are left exposed flush with the gum. If they are submerged, then a second procedure will be needed to expose the implant after it has integrated with the. If the implant was not submerged, the prosthetic phase can begin once osseointegration is complete. Many times a single tooth can be replaced with 3 visits and only 8 weeks of time.
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| 1. Bone is exposed through small incision. | 2. Numbed area is prepared for insertion of post. | 3. Implant post is gently inserted. | 4. Post in its final position. | 5. Sutures are applied to aid healing. | 6. Osseo-integration process begins. |
3. Implant Uncovering
If the implants were submerged at the time of placement, a second procedure will be needed to expose the implants. This is minor procedure in which a small incision is made in the gum in the area of the dental implants. A titanium healing abutment is placed on top of the implant and the gum is sutured around it. The prosthetic phase can usually begin in 2-3 weeks time.
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| 1. Submerged abutments are exposed through small incision. | 2. Healing caps are inserted into existing posts. | 3. Gums are sutured around healing caps. | 4. After 2-3 weeks, area is ready for prosthetic phase. |
4. Prosthetic Phase
Your dentist will make the replacement teeth that are held in place be the dental implants. This will take varying lengths of time depending on the type of restoration planned. Your dentist will discuss this with you before treatment begins. Your implant restoration may be cemented onto the implants, or it may be screwed into place. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, a segment of missing teeth, or a whole arch of missing teeth. Implants can also be used to secure a loose denture.
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| Lower Denture | Upper Denture | Dental Implant |
5. Maintenance Phase
Just like natural teeth or like the finest automobile, dental implants need ongoing maintenance if you are to realize their full benefit over many decades. This will include proper care at home as well as professional maintenance. Dr. Scharf will work closely with your dentist to custom tailor your maintenance program to your specific needs.
Most patients experience minimal disruption to their daily lives when undergoing dental implant treatment. Most people never have to walk around without teeth during the entire process. This will be discussed with you before any treatment takes place. We believe in no surprises!!
Click the links below to view some examples of patients treated with dental implants.
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