Dentals Implants

implantes

A dental implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root portion of a missing natural tooth that will later be rehabilitated (covered) with a crown.

Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a secure anchor for the replacement of a tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace either a single tooth or multiple teeth (multiple implants) both in the upper and lower jaws.

Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry. They are the best available option for the permanent replacement of missing teeth and may be an alternative to wearing dentures, restoring the patient´s confidence with a functional, confident smile.

Each case is individually evaluated, and based on the results of a comprehensive review a treatment plan is designed, detailing the treatment and costs involved.

Let´s get started.

Stage 1

Prior to your appointment for placing the implants, you will be provided with the protocol detailing the before and after medication as well as the care instructions.

The implant process (time) depends on the number of implants, and is performed under local anesthesia. It will take the dental implant three to six months before the bone grows around the screw (implant) and holds it firmly in place, to assure a successful bony integration of the implant with the jawbone. In some cases, a temporary denture could be needed during this phase.

Stage 2

To replace the original natural tooth, a crown is placed on the implant after the implant has osseointegrated into the bone.

Having a dental implant is an investment that could last a lifetime, as long as regular maintenance appointments are observed. Just as we understand that for the proper operation of our vehicle periodical maintenance is required, it is just as essential you schedule dental maintenance appointments every 3 to 6 months.

Common questions

Will dental implants work for me?

If you have a missing tooth or teeth, due to injury, disease or tooth decay, you may be a candidate for dental implants.  In each case, suitability will be based on the amount of available bone.   You might also like to consider other approaches, such as a crown, a bridge, or dentures.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

  1. A secure and permanent solution to substitute missing teeth, which with proper checkups and maintenance are a long term solution.
  2. Dental implants can stop jawbone shrinkage which may cause your face to look older.
  3. The use of traditional bridges, require that the adjacent teeth be used to provide anchorage of the prosthesis. Dental implants help to eliminate the need to modify your natural teeth.
  4. Provides the ability to chew and speak properly.
  5. Reduction of potential gum problems and infections
  6. Increase your confidence and self-esteem by improving your personal appearance from all of the above.

 Will my teeth have a natural appearance?

Combined with modern restorative dentistry, the appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations.  Dental implants are often hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.

Risk factors.

Smoking. Smoking is a risk factor in the placement of dental implants because smoking reduces vascularization (the blood flow through the gums and bone) and thus delays the healing of tissues, affecting the process needed for the bone and implant to integrate.  There is a greater percentage risk of implant loss for smokers than for non-smokers.

Bruxism. There is a mechanical overload generated on the teeth in patients with bruxism (teeth grinding).

Periodontal disease. Implants placed in the mouth are subject to the same risk of infection as natural teeth have. Those patients who suffer from some form of periodontal disease, may be candidates for dental implant treatment, provided that the periodontal disease has been treated previous to dental implantation. Once the patient has periodontal health and has observed a correct preventive periodontal treatment, he may undergo a dental implant treatment and will have the same chance of success than any other healthy patient.

Diabetes. Diabetic patients must stabilize their blood sugar and it is recommended that they follow a stress reduction protocol.  Patients with uncontrolled diabetes have a high risk of implant failure and delayed wound healing.

Osteoporosis. In itself, osteoporosis is not an absolute contraindication and an implant treatment may or may not be performed depending on the degree of bone involvement in the area of ​​the placement of the implant.

Inadequate oral hygiene. Inadequate oral hygiene causes the patient to have increased inflammation of the soft tissues and bone loss, which negatively affects the dental implant treatment.

In all these cases, implants are not contraindicated but both personal as well as the professional care by the specialists must be intensified.

To book an appointment, please contact us. To find out more about available treatments and our price list please click here.