Dental Implants – Johnston, IA

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost a tooth regains the ability to chew effectively and smile with confidence, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are titanium posts, which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Emily or Dr. Derek. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Emily or Dr. Derek will usually perform initial tooth extractions and bone grafting, if necessary. After the bone has time to heal from the extraction(s), an oral surgeon will complete the implant placement surgery. After the bone and gums have time to heal from the implant surgery, Dr. Emily or Dr. Derek will fit and make the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant healing process.

Dental implants are metal posts, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small abutments are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These abutments provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. You should be able to wear a temporary prosthesis during this time, if desired.

After the dental implant has integrated with the jaw bone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will check the healing of the implants and attach a small healing collar. As long as healing is adequate, Dr. Emily or Dr. Derek can then start making your new teeth. An impression or digital scan must be taken. Then, abutments or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are made over the abutments or attachments. The entire process usually takes six to eight months from start to finish. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.