Dental Implants

Dental implants were invented and perfected by Prof. Peers Branemark, an orthopedic surgeon in Sweden, some 35 years ago. Since that time implants have been constantly changed and improved and have now been widely accepted by the dental profession and patients as the preferred method of replacement of lost teeth. There are now 23 companies worldwide that make various sizes, shapes and designs of dental implants. Some carefully selected designs have proven to be very successful and have been thoroughly tested. Many are FDA approved in the U.S. It is amazing just how successful these are. Most studies agree that over 95% of dental implants are still functioning after 15 years. Little else we do in dentistry (such as fillings or crowns) has a higher success rate.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are basically, modified surgical Titanium screws. They are placed into the jaw bone. Teeth made of metal and porcelain are cemented to the implant. The process is simple and easy. They are successful because the Titanium surface has been treated so that the implant attaches itself to the surrounding bone. Titanium is very bio-compatible and does not cause any rejection response from the body tissues. In addition, one great advantage is that Titanium dental implants are not subject to diseases that commonly affect natural teeth such as dental decay or gum disease. The process of placing a dental implant is painless and very simple. First, the patient is assessed. An examination is performed and this is supplemented with X- rays and in some cases, with Computer Tomogram (CT) images. A discussion then occurs to make the patient fully aware of what will be necessary of all aspects of the procedure. This is called an “informed consent” and is needed to go ahead.

The Dental Implant Process

Some patients, especially those who need multiple dental implants may prefer to be sedated for the actual process of implant placement. General anesthesia is rarely needed. In almost all cases a little local anesthesia is all that is needed. After placement, there is minimal discomfort and most patients do not require any pain medication or antibiotics. Most people have a hard time accepting how easy the whole process really is.

Once the implant has fused with the surrounding bone which can take between a few weeks to six months, this is largely depends on the condition of the surrounding bone. As we mentioned earlier an implant can be ready for the addition of a tooth on the same day as it’s placed. Then molds are made of the Implant and the full mouth. These are sent to special dental technicians who construct a life-like replica of a natural tooth. Once constructed, the tooth is then cemented to the dental implant. The patient is then able to enjoy many years of happy eating and smiling for many years to come with their new permanent single tooth, multiple teeth and even denture stabilization.

Implants can be used these days with confidence due to their strong tract record of success. Most dentists in Encino would call implant technology the biggest advance in dentistry in the last 100 years. We agree.

"I am so thrilled to have teeth again. I hated my old dentures. They did not chew very well and were always sore and loose. On top of that they made me look older. I don't pretend to know very much about the technology, but I know one thing. I am a happy guy. Thanks Dr. M. You'r the best." Dave Winslow, retired salesman,  Van Nuys