Restorative Procedures - Implants

Despite advancements in dental care, millions of Americans still suffer tooth loss -- due usually to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. In the past, the dentist’s only options were to replace missing teeth with bridges or dentures. Today, fortunately, dental implants are available. Dental implants replace lost tooth roots and provide a strong foundation, often stronger than the natural tooth, for either a permanent or removable replacement tooth. And, like resin fillings, these will match the color of your natural teeth. We will make sure that your implants have the look and feel of natural teeth.

CASE 1 - SOFIA

Sofia had lost teeth due to advanced periodontal disease and tooth decay, and was frustrated with her partial denture. It was uncomfortable, and she didn’t like that it had showed metal when she smiled. She wanted teeth that would not have to ‘come out at night’. We offered her the option of dental implants and a fixed bridge. Her implants are stable and very comfortable and are cared for just as her own teeth are by brushing and flossing. This X-ray image shows excellent stability of the implants after 15 years.

CASE 2 - FRED

Alternative to sinus lift – the minimally invasive way.

Fred had to have his upper molar removed due to a failed root canal. He wanted to have the tooth replaced and a dental implant was recommended. He was told by another dentist that he needed to have a sinus lift procedure. Fred was concerned about having that procedure, and the long waiting period before he could have his dental implant. We reviewed his case and determined that a less invasive procedure, the internal sinus lift could be performed an that Fred could receive his implant right away, saving nearly nine months of treatment time. His implant is now in function for seven years.

A NEW REPORT CONCLUDES THAT DENTAL IMPLANTS CAN SAVE COSTS AND IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE

Systematic review of 14 studies published between 2000 and 2010 concludes that, compared with traditional tooth replacement options, dental implant solutions:

• were generally cost-saving or cost-effective for single-tooth replacement,
• represented a cost-effective option for the replacement of multiple teeth over the long term, and
• led to better improvements in oral-health-related quality of life.

A report published as the lead article in the International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants shows that dental implants offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional treatments for tooth replacement (Basel, 4 July 2013).