Throughout time many options have existed to replace missing teeth, including traditional porcelain bridges, partial or complete dentures, and dental implants. Dental implants are the easiest and most natural way to replace lost teeth. Implant dentistry represents the most predictable and widely used method of replacing lost teeth today. There is no reason to live with missing teeth. Not only does a full set of teeth improve self esteem but it makes the surrounding teeth stronger by decreasing unnecessary stresses on the natural teeth. Dental implants involve a titanium screw to replace the missing tooth root, with a porcelain crown cemented permanently onto the titanium screw to replace the tooth above the gum line. Dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth and are not removable. We invite you to explore the many options of replacing your lost teeth.
A second chance at a smile
Patients and their dentists are choosing dental implants more and more. Once considered experimental, today's implants have a success rate of 95-97 percent because of better technology and greater skill by dentists. Dr. Patterson has a desire to take care of his patients, and is interested in both their medical and psychological well-being. Whether replacing one or more teeth, dental implants enable patients to have fixed teeth that will last decades.
Where teeth once were
Dental implants are titanium screws that are placed in the jawbone. Many are shaped like cylinders, mimicking the shape of the tooth's root. As the bone grows, it attaches itself to the implant, securing it. During the healing and regrowth phase, the implants are completely covered by the gums. At a second appointment, the secure implants are uncovered so the new teeth may be permantly placed. Permanent porcelain bridges or individual teeth are cemented or screwed onto the posts. Each procedure is done in less than an hour. Small doses of local anesthesia are administered until the area is numb and ready for the surgery. Usually the surgery takes less than an hour with the patient walking out of the office with little or no discomfort.
