Smile-Enhancing Dentistry

Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. If you have lost teeth, implants will allow you to regain the ability to eat virtually anything and  smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth appear natural and that facial contours are preserved. Implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
 
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you have a dental examination including X-rays,  and complete a health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by 
Dr. Finney.   We partner with specialists to place the implant, then Dr. Finney makes the needed appliance to restore the tooth/teeth.  Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

What Material is in an Implant?

Titanium is the metal that is the main component of an Implant.  Titanium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal. It is  non-toxic and  not rejected by the body. It has the ability to osseointegrate, which means it becomes part of the bone, providing phenomenal strength.  The same material is used in  joint replacements and dental implants, where it can remain in place for up to 30 years.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are titanium  anchors, which act as  substitutes for the root of your tooth.  They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
 
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgery when
the  implant(s) are surgically placed within your jawbone. For the first 3-6  months following surgery, the implants are  gradually bonding with the jawbone. A silver cap is attached to the top of the implant.  You are able to see this cap and it must be kept clean for the 3-6 month period of time required for the implant to bond to the jawbone. 
 
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Finney will start making your new teeth. For most single tooth implants, only one appointment is needed for the crown restoration.  If Dr. Finney is  replacing several teeth, more appointments will be needed.  The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months with little or no disruption in your daily life.