A dental implant is a titanium screw-like fixture that Dr. Baldan places in your jaw to hold a replacement tooth, bridge or denture. Unlike bridgework or partial dentures, dental implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. They are natural looking and feeling. Dental implants are recommended for patients in good general oral health that have lost a tooth or teeth due to infection, tooth fracture or accident.
Adequate bone in the jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
In most cases, prior to placing the implant, a special radiograph (C.T. or panoramic) is required to enable the periodontist to determine the bone density and the location of the sinus and nerves. This helps to determine the type, size and placement of the implant. The radiograph required will be determined by Dr. Baldan for each individual case.
After achieving sufficient anesthesia, a gum flap is raised. The bone is then sequentially prepared to the depth of the implant. The implant is then placed in the bone and the overlying gum tissue is then stitched closed. The area is allowed to heal for 3-6 months. After this healing stage, a second small surgical procedure may be necessary to expose and test the stability of the implant. Not all implants require a second stage procedure. Following this, the implant is ready to receive the crown. A prosthodontist or your dentist will make the crown, bridge or denture that goes on top of the implant, for you.