South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Implants (Surgical & Restorations)

In our Wellington Cosmetic Dentistryry office we offer comprehensive treatment for dental implants. At Dr. Sadati's office, all stages of the procedure can be performed in the same setting so we can monitor your progress form start to finish.

For individuals who wish to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be an effective long-term solution. Implants provide greater structural support and last longer than either bridges or dentures. Implants serve as the artificial root to which new teeth are bonded. They are typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material that effectively attaches to bone. The procedure to insert dental implants typically involve three steps: the implant insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of attaching bone to implant), and the attachment of the restoration or new tooth.

Types of Dental Implants provided by Wellington Cosmetic Dentistryry

The most popular form of implant is the Root Implant. This type of implant is very effective and mirrors the size and the shape of a patient's natural tooth. Many times, this implant will be as strong structurally as the original tooth's root. Once the dentist applies the local anesthesia, he or she makes an incision in the gum in order to gain access to the jawbone. The bone is then prepared and the implant inserted into the jawbone with care and precision. Finally, the dentist stitches the gums and, if necessary, prescribes the appropriate medication. During the osseointegration step, which lasts anywhere from 3 to 8 months, the jawbone firmly attaches itself to the implant. Once osseointegration is completed, the patient returns to the dental office where the implant is fitted with the new tooth.

Another form of implant is the Plate Form Implant. This implant is ideal in situations where the jaw bone is not wide enough to properly support a Root Implant. The Plate form implant is long and thin, unlike the Root Implant, and anchors into thin jawbones. Once the dentist applies the local anesthesia, he or she makes an incision in the gumline in order to gain access to the jawbone. The bone is then prepared and the implant is inserted into the jawbone with care and precision. The dentist then sutures the gums and prescribes the appropriate medication. In certain cases, Plate Implants are immediately fitted with the restoration without waiting for the osseointegration period.

The last type of implant is the Subperiosteal Implant. These implants are utilized when the jawbone has receded to the point where it no longer supports a permanent implant. These implants are placed on top of the bone and imbedded in the gums, but not in the jawbone as with the other types of implants. The dentist applies a local anesthesia, and makes a mold of the mouth and jawbone. From this impression, a dental lab technician constructs implants to custom fit the patient's jaw. On the second visit to the dentist, the dentist exposes the jawbone and inserts the implant on top of it. Over the next month the gums grow up and around the implant. This same type of implant can sometimes be performed in a single procedure with the use of an initial CAT scan of the gumline and jawbone.

Health Concerns

As with any cosmetic surgery, complications are rare, but can include infection, damage to nerves, and mild discomfort. Although very unlikely, infection of the gums or jawbone is a possibility and is treated through medication and/or antibiotics. Surgery to the upper or lower jawbone can result in nerve damage. Nerve damage typically subsides in several weeks, but can persist for longer periods of time or in rare cases, permanently. As the jawbone heals, patients may experience some discomfort, which can be tempered through medication. Discomfort subsides within 7 to 10 days.

Suggestions for Proper Maintenance by Wellington Cosmetic Dentistryry

Although patients should always practice proper dental hygiene, this is especially true once a dental implant has been put into place. When teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, bacteria can attack sensitive areas, causing the gums to swell and the jawbone to gradually recede. Enough recession of the jawbone can weaken dental implants and eventually necessitate their removal. Patients should visit their dentist's office at least twice a year in order to insure the health of their teeth and their implant. Following an implant operation, smoking should be avoided, as it impairs the gum and jawbone's ability to heal. Given the proper care, dental implants should last 25 years or longer.

Dr Sam Sadati DDS - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and dental spas to the area of Wellington, South Florida.