Dental Implants

Dental Implants replace missing teeth.  If you are missing one or more of your teeth you may want to consider dental implants.  There are many ways to replace missing teeth and dental implants are one of them.  If dental implants are not for you but you would still like to replace your missing teeth, then please see our section on permanently cemented bridges, removable partial dentures or removable complete dentures.  Dental implants are an alternative to bridges, partials or complete dentures.

Dental implants are used to replace missing roots and support artificial teeth and they look and feel very natural.

What are dental implants?

A dental implants are made of titanium metal and used to replace natural roots. Implants are placed in the bone where natural roots and teeth may have been.  The implant then acts as an anchor to hold artificial teeth in place.  

What are the benefits of replacing my teeth? 

Tooth replacement is important.  If a tooth is lost many processes occur in the mouth.  First, bone is resorbed (decreased) in the region where your natural root once was. Second, teeth on either side of the missing tooth tip into the space left by your missing tooth.  As well, the tooth in your opposing arch can over-erupt into the space left by your missing tooth.  The placement of an implant is vital to maintaining bone and tooth stability as your natural root once did.  Placing a bridge or partial denture can also help to prevent tooth movement within in your mouth but it will not aid in maintaining bone levels.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

In order to be a suitable candidate for a dental implant you need to be in good health, have healthy gums and adequate jawbone to support an implant.  In some cases a person may require a bone graft to provide enough bone support for the placement of a dental implant.

How is an dental implant placed?

Dental implants are placed into the jaw bone using a series of dental tools.  The implant must osseointegrate with your own bone in order for the implant to be a success.  Osseointegration is the process by which bone cells surround your titanium implant.  The implant is allowed to integrate with the surrounding bone for at least three months before replacement teeth can be anchored.  Dr. Hall will ensure that the implant has adequately integrated with your bone before a replacement tooth is supported by your implant.

Here's testimonial from Gene, a Nobel Biocare Implant Patient