Implants

Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live. Not long ago the only options to replace a missing tooth or teeth were dentures, bridgework, a removable plastic false tooth, or to do nothing at all. Today the treatment of choice to replace missing teeth is dental implants.

Dental implants are artificial root structures made of surgical grade titanium which act as anchors for permanent crowns, bridges or dentures. Dental implants help preserve facial structure and prevent bone loss that occurs with missing teeth.

Restoring your bite with dental implants is a team effort between our office and an implant specialist. An Oral Surgeon or Periodontist performs the implant surgery after tooth extraction, and Dr. White makes and fits the permanent crown, bridge or denture which goes over the implant. Dr. White also provides a temporary prosthesis if needed while healing takes place after implant surgery.

If you are considering dental implants, your mouth must be examined to determine bone, gum tissue, and space available for an implant and your medical and dental history reviewed. In some situations, your treatment plan may be separated in phases from 2-6 months.

Advances in Dental Implant technology have made it possible, in select cases, to extract teeth and place dental implants at the same time. In very special cases crowns may also be placed immediately.

Once the 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 & flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental providers.