Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence. To discuss getting dental implants in the tri-county, Marion County, Lake County, Hernando County, or Ocala, FL area, please feel free to contact us at 352-861-1100 to schedule an appointment.
What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts, which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The implants act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first four to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.
After the Implant fixture is placed and the proper healing time is complete, there will be an appointment for uncovering of the implant and placement of a healing abutment. This abutment will be in place only until the restorative Dentist has completed his impressions. The healing abutment will be replaced with a permanent abutment and either a cemented crown or overdenture placed.
There are even situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction - further minimizing the number of surgical procedures. We provide this service on a regular basis.
Who actually performs the dental implant placement?
Implants are a team effort between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist. While Dr. Karpovck performs the actual implant surgery, and initial tooth extractions and bone grafting if necessary, the restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Dr. Karpovck has been placing hundreds of dental implants over the last 20 years. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process. You get the best of both worlds!
What types of prostheses are available?
A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of complete prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball in socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.
Dr. Karpovck performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite, thus optimizing the level of sterility.
Why dental implants?
Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize there is a way to improve you life. When you lose several teeth – whether it’s a new situation or something you have lived with for years – chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself.
Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.
A Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon developed this concept for oral rehabilitation more than thirty-five years ago and this has been perfected to provide permanent root replacement to support crowns, bridges and dentures. The root-form implant was developed and opened the door to a lifetime of renewed comfort and self-confidence for millions of individuals facing the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss.
Why would you select dental implants over more traditional types of restorations?
There are several reasons: Why sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge a space? In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, not to mention that dentures that slip can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing. We do NOT want you to live around your teeth at any age!
Are you a candidate for dental implants?
If you are considering dental implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. Ninety-nine percent of our patients are ideal to receive dental implants. If you mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended and is very useful in prioviding support to a deficient dental ridge.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The majority of dental implants and bone graft can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with IV sedation.
Do dental implants need special care?
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.
