A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used in solutions for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.
Many people who consider implants have removable, conventional dentures for lower and upper jaws, or have removable bridges. These people experience a significant improvement in their ability to chew food comfortably after their dental implant treatment.
At the first appointment, we use an X-ray to determine if the jaw bone is adequate to hold the titanium posts.
Models of the mouth are then made using a soft, pliable plastic compound. These models show where the gaps are located and provide measurements for a replacement tooth or a bridge.
Treatment with dental implants requires meticulous planning for best results.
When the permanent crown is ready (1-2 weeks normally), the temporary crowns are replaced.
A surgical procedure is required (using local anesthetic and sedative) in which precision channels are created in the jawbone, often using a surgical guide. The implants are then fitted into the sites so that they are in contact with the bone. They generally require two to six months to fuse to the bone before they can have tooth restorations attached to them to complete the process.
Immediately – at the same time an implant is placed (or after a period of healing), an abutment is attached to the implant. This is a device that “abuts” or joins the implant to a tooth form called a crown, which replaces the tooth part you see in the mouth.
The custom crown is cemented or screwed onto the abutment to permanently keep it in place and should be indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
When the permanent crown is ready (1-2 weeks normally), the temporary crowns are replaced.
Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our office if you are considering dental implants.
Our family has been coming to Dr. Schott for 20+ years. We appreciate the appointment reminders, the friendly staff, friendly demeanor, thoughtfulness, willingness to answer questions/explain options, use of new tech that reduces discomfort and speeds the visit.
Greatest dentist and staff ever. Always the best service and care.
I've been seeing Dr. Schott for 14 years. I've moved away from the island, but him and his awesome staff are well worth the hour drive every time!
It's worth my family's hour travel to get the best care. Dr. Schott and his staff are wonderful.
Dr. Schott does excellent and professional dental work. I switched to him from another dentist I had been seeing for 25+ yrs!! His office staff and dental assistant couldn't be nicer... Courteous and oh so friendly!! I will continue to travel out of my way (a half an hour further) for this exceptional team, well worth it!!
Due to my past experiences with dentists I arrived with no expectations. I left with complete and utter satisfaction with the entire experience from start to finish. Everyone here was just wonderful!
Truly gentle dentistry, Dr. Schott is pleasant and personable, as are all the folks on his staff.
he best dentist & staff anywhere!!!
Painless Pete is the best!!!
I really like Dr. Schott and his team. Everyone I have seen is super, nice, and very professional. I just received a new crown and Dr. Schott took care in making it look great. I am loving my renewed smile!
