DENTAL IMPLANTS

1. Dental Implants
• Conventional Dental Implants.
• Mini Dental Implants.
2. What are the benefits of dental implants?
3. Who is a candidate for dental implants?
4. Is there pain or discomfort involved?
5. How long does it take?
6. How much will it cost?
7. Are dental implants successful?
8. Useful links

Dental Implants - two types: Conventional and Mini

A dental implant is a small man-made titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth in your mouth. The implant is placed in the bone of your upper or lower jaw. Your bone then heals tightly around this implant and the implant then serves as an anchor for your replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implant supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history. Dental implants preserve the integrity of your facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss.

The effects of tooth loss are numerous and can be devastating. The loss of either a single tooth or total tooth loss can cause a lack of confidence and can effect every day life. People affected by tooth loss often find eating in public difficult and traumatic or are not confident about their smile. When teeth are lost your jaw bone actually sinks away, and from scientific research we know that wearing dentures accelerates this process. This in turn affects the muscle tone to the face reducing bone support for the lips and cheeks, consequently, the lips and lower part of face have collapsed producing an aging effect on the individuals appearance.

For individuals who wish to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be an effective long-term solution. Implants provide greater structural support and last longer than either bridges or dentures. Implants serve as the artificial root to which new teeth are bonded. They are typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material that effectively attaches to bone. The procedure to insert dental implants typically involve three steps: the implant insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of healing for the jawbone), and the attachment of the restoration or new tooth.

Conventional implants (BICON)

The most popular form of implant is the Root Implant. This type of implant is very effective and mirrors the size and the shape of a patient's natural tooth. Many times, this implant will be as strong structurally as the original tooth's root. Once the dentist applies the local anesthesia, he or she makes an incision in the gum in order to gain access to the jawbone. The bone is then prepared and the implant inserted into the jawbone with care and precision. Finally, the dentist stitches the gums and, if necessary, prescribes the appropriate medication. During the osseointegration step, which lasts anywhere from 3 to 8 months, the jawbone firmly attaches itself to the implant. Once osseointegration is completed, the patient returns to the dental office where the implant is fitted with the new tooth.

Examples

Immediate implant procedure

 

Health Concerns

As with any cosmetic surgery, complications are rare, but can include infection, slight damage to nerves, and mild discomfort. Although very unlikely, infection of the gums or jawbone is a possibility and is treated through medication and/or antibiotics. Surgery to the upper or lower jawbone can result in mild nerve damage. Nerve damage typically subsides in several weeks, but can persist for longer periods of time. As the jawbone heals, patients may experience some discomfort, which can be tempered through medication. Discomfort subsides within 7 to 10 days.

Proper Maintenance

Although patients should always practice proper dental hygiene, this is especially true once a dental implant has been put into place. When teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, bacteria can attack sensitive areas, causing the gums to swell and the jawbone to gradually recede. Enough recession of the jawbone can weaken dental implants and eventually necessitate their removal. Patients should visit their dentist's office at least twice a year in order to insure the health of your teeth and your implant. Following an implant operation, smoking should be avoided, as it impairs the gum and jawbone's ability to heal. Given the proper care, dental implants should last 25 years or longer.

Mini Implants (IMTEC)

If you are in need of dental implants, but discouraged by the high cost, surgery (potential bruising and swelling) and the months of healing and waiting time or are in danger of losing your teeth (or have already lost them) and don't want to suffer with loose, embarrassing, complete or partial dentures, then your ordeal may be over... and your solution at hand. Twenty years of clinical trials and research by Dr. Victor I. Sendax, the inventor, and his associates have demonstrated the remarkable validity of MINI DENTAL IMPLANTS™ for long-term use as well as shorter-term transitional applications. A remarkable solution to those who wish to avoid multiple and complex surgery, but want a more stable alternative to dentures.

Imagine visiting your dentist in the morning, have the mini-implant treatment in less than 2 hours then enjoy you favorite lunch. Eat comfortably, laugh and talk with confidence - all for an affordable price. The mini implant acts like the root of your tooth to which a crown or a denture can be securely attached. The placement of the implant is accomplished quickly and easily in a one-step procedure performed at our practice. Under local anaesthesia, or a light sedation, using precise controlled and minimally invasive surgical techniques, the implants are placed into the jawbone. The head of the implants protrude from the gum tissue and provide a strong solid foundation for securing your crowns, dentures, or brace.

Typical Benefits of Mini Implants

• Non-surgical, minimally invasive technique (avoid cutting the gum, far less trauma, often painless healing)

The most effective use of this unique dental product is stabilization of a lower denture. There are approximately 120,000 people in the UK who are "edentulous" (literally meaning lacking teeth) who struggle daily with prosthetic devices. A majority suffers a great deal of discomfort as a result of loose or ill-fitting dentures. Also, many denture wearers simply withdraw from any type of social engagement as a result of being compelled to wear them. Moreover, it's not uncommon for family members to complain about a denture wearer's disagreeable breath as a result of food being trapped and decaying under their denture prosthesis. Successful placement of the mini implants addresses and solves all of these social and practical problems.

The head of the implant is shaped like a ball. The retaining fixture in your denture acts like a socket that contains a rubber O-ring. This snaps over the ball when the denture is seated and holds the denture at a predetermined level of force. When seated the denture gently rests on the gum tissue while the implant fixture allows for micro mobility while withstanding the natural lifting of eating.

Mini Dental Implant technique for denture stabilization

The MDI Denture Stabilization Procedure

This denture wearer is missing all his lower teeth. His jawbone is thin and he isn't able to withstand the rigors of a lengthy conventional implant surgery. This patient is healthy and is a perfect candidate for this procedure.

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Implant Site Preparation

Patients are first anesthetized and then a special drill is used to create a place for each implant.

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Placing the Implants

Each tiny implant is then held by a small finger driver that inserts the implant and also acts as a screw driver.

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Tightening the Implants

Next, a winged wrench further tightens the implant.

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Seating the Implants

Finally, a ratchet wrench firmly seats the implant into place.

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Retrofitting the Denture

The patient's existing denture will be marked to show the placement of the implants and wells will be drilled at each of those points at our on-site lab. Each well will contain a metal housing that will allow the denture to snap on and off each implant.

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The Completed Procedure

The retrofitted denture is snapped into place and the patient will be ready to have dinner the same evening.

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What are the benefits of dental implants?

Improved Appearance

If you loose a tooth or when teeth are lost, ongoing shrinkage of your jawbones occurs, making your face look older. Dental implants can slow or stop this process. Dental implants look and feel like your own natural teeth.

Improved Comfort

Dental implants eliminate the pain and discomfort of removable full or partial dentures. Since dentures sit on top of your jawbone and gums, continuous shrinkage of your jaw bone alters the fit of your denture, resulting in slipping or rocking of the dentures. Exposed nerves and irritation of your gum tissue may add to your discomfort.Implant supported replacement teeth are like natural teeth because they are anchored securely to your jawbone. Gum irritation and the pain of exposed nerves associated with conventional full or partial dentures are eliminated.

Improved Speech

With ill fitting dentures, the teeth will slip and slide around your mouth. Your facial muscles become tense as you attempt to hold your teeth in place. This often results in mumbling, slurred speech or clicking noises. Replacement teeth anchored by implants allow you to speak with confidence in a relaxed and natural tone.

Eat Better

The average denture patient with an excellent fitting denture eats at 15-20% efficiency when compared to a person with natural teeth. As your jawbone shrinks, your chewing efficiency is reduced even more, making it difficult for you to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore your chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth. This allows you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain, enjoy what everyone else is eating and not think twice about it. A full upper denture would cover the whole palate of your mouth and this reduces your ability to taste foods. With dental implants, you can have the palate removed from your upper denture so you can taste and enjoy your food.

Convenience

Dental implants can eliminate the numerous embarrassing inconveniences of removable partial and full dentures. You will eliminate the use of gooey denture adhesives that must be re-applied throughout the day. You will no longer need to cover your mouth when you laugh or smile, for fear that your teeth will pop out or fall down. And if you cough, you can dispose of your net to catch your flying teeth!

Protect Your Remaining Natural Teeth

Dental implants are often more appropriate than a bridge for the replacement of one or more adjacent teeth. With conventional bridgework, your teeth surrounding the gap must be ground down. Dental implants often eliminate the need to modify these teeth, resulting in a conservative, yet esthetic restoration.

Improved Self Esteem

Considering all other benefits, dental implants can improve your self-esteem. You may feel better about yourself. You can regain nearly all the capabilities that most people have with natural teeth, giving you renewed confidence, and allowing you to enjoy life, do what everyone else is doing and not think twice about it.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone who is missing one or more of their teeth due to injury, disease, or decay may be a candidate for dental implants. If one or a few teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth without loosing more bone. If all or most of your teeth are missing, the dental implants may be placed to replace a loose fitting full or partial denture. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant(s) along with healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits that dental implants offer. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and medical health history.

Is there pain or discomfort involved?

Just as with any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Anesthesia and sometimes patient sedation are used to eliminate any anxiety or discomfort at the time of the procedure. Most patients report that there is very little discomfort and that they were much more comfortable following the procedure then they anticipated. We will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur, and we may recommend that you speak with another patient who has already had tooth replacement therapy to assess their personal experience.

How long does it take?

The complete implant reconstruction process may take from 2 to 9 months and in some cases longer. Time is needed for your jawbone to grow around the implant and for your replacement teeth to be made. Procedures vary, but it usually includes two surgical steps and then the restoration is fabricated. First, we will place the dental implants into your jawbone. Your bone cells then grow around the implants, and that may take up to six months to occur. We then make a small incision in the gum tissue and connect a healing post to your implant(s). Your gum tissue heals around the post for a period of 3-6 weeks or longer. We then attach a post to the implant and our dental technicians make the replacement teeth. It may take several visits and several months to complete the restoration process.

With mini-implants the crown or bridge can usually be placed within 10 days of surgery.

How much will it cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced and the number of implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. Typically, there is a fee for the surgical procedure and a separate fee to attach the posts and construct your replacement teeth. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary for us to examine your mouth. After a thorough diagnostic examination, we will recommend the treatment that is best for you and what your investment would be for the procedure.

• Please see prices for ball-park figures.
• Dentist will give a treatment plan and estimate.
• Finance can be arranged if required.

Are dental implants successful?

Research and documentation studies have proven the effectiveness and long lasting results of dental implants. Steri-Oss dental implants have demonstrated a success rate of over 95% in documented studies. Good oral hygiene is one of the most critical factors to insure the health of your dental implants. Our hygiene team at will instruct you on the proper home hygiene procedures to keep your dental implants and remaining teeth clean and healthy. Regular visits to our hygiene team are essential so your dental team can assess the health of your replacement teeth and gum tissue. You can rely on your replacement teeth to look, feel and function like natural teeth for years to come.

More information:

1. What are dental implants
2. What are mini dental implants
3. What is involved

Useful Links

• Bicon dental implants
• IMTEC corporation
• Las Vegas dental institute