Dental Implantology is a new branch of dentistry, which involves the reconstruction of missing teeth and their supporting structures with natural or synthetic substitutes. Dental implants are used routinely in hundreds of clinics and hospitals worldwide, and sought after because they have been proven to provide comfortable, permanent and attractive tooth replacements as an alternative to removable dentures and conventional bridges.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

• Implants bond biologically to the living bone tissue
• Once united with the bone, they support your teeth firmly and safely
• Implants restore function and aesthetics to normal levels
• Eating, talking and chewing need no longer be painful experiences
• Dental implants prevent progressive bone atrophy and shrinkage
• Dental implants help preserve bone levels and a youthful facial appearance.

Indications for Dental Implants:

• Missing teeth
• Painful and loose dentures
• Prevention of shrinkage of jawbone after tooth loss

What is a Dental Implant?

An implant is an artificial titanium fixture, which is place surgically into the jawbone to substitute for a missing tooth and its roots. Dental implants are non-allergenic, and very compatible with body tissue. With proper care and routine dental check-ups the implants should last a lifetime.

How successful are Implants?

While there are risks and concerns with any dental procedure, results of implant treatment are quite predictable today. Each patient must be evaluated individually by a dentist with experience in implantology. The discipline of implantology is demanding, but extremely rewarding. I have elected to concentrate my practice on implantology because of the tremendous gratification of seeing so many of my patients so pleased with their implants. Implants are here to stay and will continue to improve the quality of life and help restore the oral health of millions of people.

Implant Surgery:

Implant placement usually does not result in much post-operative discomfort -usually the patient takes Tylenol or Advil for about 2-5 days. If more extensive treatment is needed, for example bone grafts or many implants, then the post-operative course may require more time and medication. Anesthesia during the surgery should make the placement procedure pain-free. Depending on the complexity and number of implants being placed, the procedure can take between 30 minutes to 3-4 hours.

The first phase of treatment, after a detailed evaluation and treatment plan, usually is the actual placement of the implants. This procedure is generally done in the doctor's office during one visit. Most implants will remain covered, underneath the gums, for 3 to 6 months. During this time, osseointegration --the biological bonding of the jawbone to the implant--occurs. Through this healing period, you will probably wear your modified denture or a temporary denture or bridge and maintain normal activities without restriction. You will need to follow a modified, soft diet for the first couple of weeks.

The second phase of the procedure is usually 3-6 months after implant placement. At this time, the top of the implants will be uncovered from under the gums and a small metal post or extension will be attached to the implant(s). Your dentist will make any necessary modifications to your temporary teeth to allow you to continue wearing them after post attachment.

In the third phase, which usually starts 2-6 weeks after the second phase, your new replacement teeth are created and fitted. This phase involves a series of appointments to make impressions of your mouth and to "try-in" your replacement teeth at key steps in their fabrication. The try-in sessions are necessary to ensure that the size, shape, color and fit of your new teeth will completely blend with and match your individual facial characteristics and remaining natural teeth (if any). The third phase is usually completed within 4 to 8 weeks. Total treatment time for most implant cases will usually be 5-8 months. It could be longer if bone or gum procedures are needed.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please call Dr. Jung’s office at 767-7212. Once examined, Dr. Jung can provide you with testimonials of other patients who have already undergone implant reconstruction.| Back to Top |