Dental Implants

Dental Implants are titanium alloy posts that are surgically installed into the upper or lower jaw that can be used to support dental crowns or full/partial dentures. Dental implants are not a new technology; however, are continually improved upon to ensure both success and desired aesthetics. Dental implants are simply the gold standard for replacing a single missing teeth. In addition, they can be used to replace multiple teeth or stabilize a loose or poor fitting denture or partial denture.  

 

 

Current scientific research tells us that dental implants (following manufacture's protocol) are 98-99% successful. If done properly, in the absence of significant risk factors, are wildly successful and have excellent long term survival. Risk factors that can effect long term success include poor oral hygiene, heavy smoking and uncontrolled diabetes. Dr. Richardson will take all of your risk factors in account and advise you of your best options.

All dental implants consist of 3 basic components: the fixture, the abutment, and the crown/prosthetic. Richardson Periodontics will surgically install the fixture (post) and ensure that it heals fully. This is a process called osseointegration. Once the fixture has integrated with your jaw bone, Dr. Richardson will refer you back to your general dentist for impressions. Then the lab fabricates an abutment and a custom designed crown that properly fits the space and matches your other teeth perfectly.  

 

Dental implants are wildly versatile and can be used in ways that were impossible even 10 years ago! Even if you have been told that you do not have "enough bone" for dental implants, this may no longer be true or even wrong to start with. Dr. Richardson, your Eutis periodontist, will evaluate you clinically and radiographically to provide you with as many treatment options as possible.

 

Keep in mind that it is only a sample of the most common treatments and Dr. Richardson will need to examine you to determine which treatment will be most successful in your mouth. As always, your questions are always welcome. Please feel free to submit questions through the site or simply call the office at 352-589-1973.