Dental Implant Restorations

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone 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 the 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 either Drs. Strickler or Ahmed. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work closely with you to ensure your dental implant procedure is successful.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are titanium anchors that function as artificial tooth roots. At our office, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a strong, long-lasting foundation for replacement teeth. Once the implants have integrated with the bone, small connector posts called abutments are attached and extend through the gums to support the final restoration.

Drs. Strickler and Ahmed perform both the placement of dental implants and the fabrication and attachment of custom implant restorations in our office. Depending on your needs, these restorations may include implant crowns, bridges, or permanent full-arch replacement teeth designed to restore both function and appearance.

For most patients, dental implant placement involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the surrounding bone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time.

Dental Restoration

After the dental implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Our doctors will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Drs. Strickler or Ahmed can then start making your new teeth. An impression of the mouth must be taken. We use the impressions to design and fabricate the final, customized restorations. These are then attached to the implants using the abutments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily lives.