Implants
What Are Implants? Dental Implants in Sheffield, Iowa
Did you know that implants are frequently the best treatment option for replacing missing teeth? Dental implants act as a tooth root replacement providing a foundation of support in the mouth for artificial teeth. They are made of biocompatible materials (titanium) and are precisely placed in the jaw bone to aid in stabilizing dental prosthetics (crowns, bridges, and dentures).
Dental Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, and they can dramatically increase the retention and stability of dentures. Dental implants have the look, feel and function of natural teeth. They are the most attractive and most natural tooth replacement. Dental implants have the highest longevity of all current prosthetic options.
Consequences of Tooth Loss:
Missing teeth can lead to many social and functional compromises. Loss of teeth also results in loss of tooth supporting bone over time compromising tooth replacement.
– Diminished esthetics
– Diminished ability to eat & chew foods
– Decreased Taste
– Loss of tooth supporting bone
– Difficulty speaking
– May give the appearance of premature aging
– Perception of gagging due to poorly fitting prostheses
– Use of Inconvenient adhesives to secure loose prostheses
How Can I benefit from Dental Implants?
Most importantly implants improve your quality of life. They markedly improve your ability to chew, smile, and speak confidently. The benefits are plain and simple:
– Implants improve chewing function and taste
– Implants improve speech
– Implants help to preserve remaining natural teeth
– Implants improve self-esteem
– Implants may eliminate the need for partial dentures or complete dentures.
– Implants help insure neighboring tooth stability
– Implants eliminate the need to use denture adhesives
– Implants stop or slow bone loss in the jaws
– Implants restore natural tooth appearance.
What’s the Procedure for Having Implants Placed?
Phase 1:
This initial visit consists of a detailed clinical and radiographic exam to determine if you are an implant candidate. We may take impressions of your teeth to make molds of your teeth for diagnostic purposes. Your medical history will be reviewed to determine if there are any medical considerations prior to proceeding with any surgical procedures. At the conclusion of this appointment an individualized treatment plan is provided to you. Surgical guides are then made using the models to direct the exact placement of the implants during surgery.
Phase 2:
The first surgical procedure involves the placement of the dental implants in the planned locations. Implants can be comfortably placed under local anesthesia used for routine dentistry. After placement the implants are allowed to heal to the underlying bone. This healing period can be as short as 3 months. You will be seen for two to three postoperative appointments to assess the healing of the implants during this time. Detailed instructions will be provided for you on how to care for your mouth following surgery.
Phase 3:
After the implant has healed to the bone we will restore your implants by placing the final crown or other planned prosthesis (tooth replacement). The restorative process may take two to six weeks.
Follow-up:
After we place the final prosthesis, we will schedule an annual follow-up exam. You should also continue with your regular dental check-ups. Know that we are always here for you if you have any questions or concerns about your implants.
How We Can Help
All of our doctors have trained in Dental Implantology through the prestigious Engel Institute. Through this training there was lecture and live patient surgery that the doctors not only watched, but performed the dental implant placement. Our team will provide you a first class experience in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Call or email our office for a complimentary consultation to help learn more about the ways dental implants can personally benefit you.
Post Op Instructions Following Procedure
Homecare Implant Fixed Restoration
Homecare Implant Removable Restoration