Modern advances in dental science now allow us to offer patients safe, successful and proven procedures for the installation of permanent nonremovable replacement teeth supported by artificial dental root forms called dental implants. These tooth replacements look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants have solved many problems associated with tooth loss that previously required replacement by removable full or partial dentures.
The procedure, referred to as osseo or biointegration, provides patients with the comfort and assurance of permanent teeth. Many patients find that dental implants restore their self-confidence and self-esteem and improve their quality of life.
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium or bioceramic surface coating on top of the titanium alloy, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can 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.
Dr. Zablotsky has received extensive training in implant dentistry. He has authored multiple research and case presentations in refereed journals and has contributed to many texts. In addition, he has multiple faculty appointments. He has been placing dental implants since 1988. He continues to update his expertise at the many conferences he regularly attends.
Evaluation
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry may be of benefit to you, we will thoroughly examine you to determine your candidacy for the contemplated dental implant procedures. We ask that you bring or have your dentist send us any current dental Xrays you or they may have. In addition, we may need other views or diagnostic films, which can be taken or ordered at your examination appointment (DDI and Advanced Imaging). Your initial appointment will consist of a periodontal examination and gathering of any other records necessary to diagnose and plan your care. The next appointment will be your treatment conference appointment. During this consultation visit, Dr. Zablotsky will address your specific needs and considerations. We will review your proposed treatment plan including: surgical costs and timing, as well as all risks, benefits, and any reasonable alternative treatments. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your treatment a success.
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided a multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
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Procedures
Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are chemically similar to the titanium alloy metals utilized in orthopedic surgery. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the bone has healed against the implant, small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
For many patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone.
After the jawbone has bonded to the implant, the second phase begins. Dr. Zablotsky will uncover the implants and attaches a small healing collar. After a few weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression/mold must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure oftentimes takes as little as six to eight months. Usually patients experience only minor disruptions in their daily life.
Occasionally, if the bone and soft tissue quality is good and if a removeable restoration isn’t loading the site, the second stage healing cuff can be placed at the first stage surgery (thus saving a second surgical procedure and postoperative healing phase). The feasibility of this approach to treatment is determined at the time of implant placement surgery by Dr. Zablotsky.
Most people are candidates for dental implants, regardless of age,health status,or the state of the jawbone. The amount of available bone present is the primary consideration. Dr. Zablotsky may use specialized x-ray techniques and a clinical examination to determine if you have enough available bone to be a candidate for dental implants.
How can you benefit from dental implants?
If you have lost one or more natural teeth, you can benefit from implant surgery. Implants provide an "anchor" for your lower or upper denture, and a method for replacing your partial or full denture with fixed bridgework, or a single missing tooth. Implants can improve your quality of life, as you will no longer be frustrated by the inconveniences of dentures or removable bridgework. Implants can also improve your chewing ability and restore the feeling of natural teeth.
How long will your implants last?
Several decades of clinical studies have shown that this type of tooth replacement offers long-term durability. As with any procedure dealing with living bone and natural functions, there can be no guarantee. Long-tern clinical studies (over 20-30 years) have demonstrated a success rates between 80 and 90 percent.
What inconvenience might you experience?
Like most of our patients, you may have only minor discomfort similar to that associated with simple tooth extraction. If you currently wear a full or partial denture, the denture may have to be modified with a soft lining. Dr. Zablotsky may recommend that you leave the denture out for a short time.
Making your decision
You have unique physical requirements and aesthetic desires that Dr. Zablotsky will take into account and discuss in evaluating the benefits you will derive from dental implants. Whether you are a candidate for implants can only be determined during your confidential consultation with Dr. Zablotsky. At that time, please feel free to ask questions and discuss available treatment options. We encourage you to call and to arrange a consultation. It is your first step toward self-improvement, confidence and enjoyment of life. A team approach to implant dentistry benefits you
The potential and expertise of our highly trained and well-qualified doctors are best realized and optimized when these doctors are united with members of your implant team. You can enjoy the confidence of having the highest level of professional care when you have Dr. Zablotsky, an expert in implant placement, and a restorative dentist working together to achieve the long-term success of your dental implants. Other questions you may have about dental implants. (You have these questions).
E- mail Dr. Zablotsky your questions about "Dental Implants"
Here are some clinical cases which illustrate common applications for dental implants:
1. Replacement of single teeth (either back or front). This makes it possible to leave the surrounding teeth alone (not grind down perfectly good teeth or remove sound restorations). The replacement teeth feel and function just like your own teeth. These teeth can be flossed without having to thread or clean under bridgework.
Single Tooth Replacement - Back Tooth
2. Help stabilize lower or upper dentures. These restorations feel very solid with no rocking or movement. In addition, in the upper arch the patient does not have the roof of the mouth covered so they can taste foods normally.
Dental Implant Supported Lower Denture
3. Helps to replace multiple missing teeth with implant borne crown and bridge. This takes pressure off the remaining neighboring teeth, thus improving their prognosis. It also makes it possible to frequently eliminate the removable partial denture.
