Dental implants may be the answer. Nothing can take the place of a healthy set of teeth, but when disease or an accident results in tooth loss, dental implants may be an option for restoring your smile. Dental implants are the most permanent biologically beneficial way to replace missing teeth.
The success of detal implant treatment is very technique specific. Dr. Vincent Vella uses specialized equipment, knowledgeable staff, and continuing education to provide patients with the best available implant treatment.
Facial appearance with healthy teeth and bones
Appearance after tooth loss
Appearance after tooth and bone loss
What are Dental Implants?
Implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically secured into the jawbone. While implant shapes can vary, they are usually screw-like in design. Once in place, the implant can then be used to attach different types of dental prosthesis, including crowns, bridges or dentures.
Natural Tooth
Dental Implants
How is the tooth replaced?
Using either local anesthetic or conscious I.V. sedation, the implant is placed into the jawbone where it remains covered by gum tissue until the next phase. After 4-6 months, the implant is exposed and a "healing cap" is placed over the top of the implant to allow the gum tissue to heal around the cap. Finally the crown is placed on the implant root to complete the process. The procedure is virtually the same whether you are replacing one tooth or all your teeth.
Can implants be used to secure a set of dentures?
Implants can be used as anchors, eliminating slippage, enhancing comfort and improving the ability to speak and smile with confidence.
Untreated Missing Tooth
Traditional Crown & Bridge
Implant with a crown
Unattractive appearance
Loss of chewing function
Accelerated bone loss
Attractive appearance
Cuts down healthy teeth
Bone loss under bridge
Attractive appearance
Full chewing function
Prevents bone loss
Can anyone have implants?
In most cases, yes. A thorough examination will determine if there is adequate bone to support the implant. When additional bone is needed, a simple procedure of bone grafting or augmentation is performed prior or simultaneously with the placement of the implant.
Is this an experimental treatment?
No. This treatment has been used for more than 50 years and has become an integral part of dental care in the U.S. over the past 15 years.
How successful are dental implants?
Implants have one of the highest success rates of any dental restoration, approximately 97%.
Will my insurance cover the procedure?
Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost. Check with your insurance provider for details.
This is a brief overview of dental implants. As the dental and medical situation of every patient is unique, any implant treatment plan requires a complete examination and analysis to formulate an individual treatment plan.
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