Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are prosthetic “roots” made of titanium that are secured to the jaw to replace missing
teeth. The advantages of dental implants vs. traditional bridges or removable partial dentures or “Partials” are numerous. Dental implants are not susceptible to decay or “cavities”. In terms of longevity, implants often last from 15-20 years on average, compared with traditional bridges, which have a lifespan that can be as short as 5 years. Also, the teeth that are on either side of the missing tooth space do not have to be touched to place an implant – this can be important for the long term “life” of a tooth over a patient’s lifetime. Frequently, when the back-most tooth is lost the only options for replacement was either a partial or a special kind of bridge called a cantilever – both of which put excessive amounts of stress on the teeth to which they are attached. Implants can be used to support crowns, bridges and even secure dentures!.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), is a 3D imaging method used during the diagnosis and
treatment planning phase that Dr. Tandy uses to help her in picking the proper length, width and angle of
placement of a dental implant, as it helps to pinpoint vital structures such as the sinus, and nerves that run through the jawbone. Compared to traditional medical “Cat Scans” or CT Scans, the radiation of a CBCT is less than 2% of that of a medical CT Scan.
Placement of an implant into the jawbone requires the bone to be prepared using precision drills. Although this sounds like it would be painful, the speed of the drilling must be very slow and very gentle to prevent damaging the bone that is to grow on the outside of the implant. That process, known as osseointegration, takes approximately 2-6 months on average and the actual length of time depends on the quantity and quality of the bone. After an implant has successfully osseointegrated, you are ready for your permanent crowns and bridges!