Dental Implants An Overview
Implant dentistry has revolutionized tooth replacement, offering patients the ability to regain natural function, aesthetics, and comfort. Dental implants can replace one missing tooth or be placed to secure a dental bridge or denture with the most stable results.
A member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Dr. Robin Thoman offers advanced care for the placement of all types of dental implants, performing all phases of the procedure in our office. This provides a foundation for dental care that is personalized, consistent and convenient for patients.
Dental Implants: What are the benefits?
Dental implants mimic the natural structure of a tooth, including the tooth root beneath the gum. This enables them to offer some key benefits for both oral health and quality of life when compared to other options, including:
- Reduces bone loss in the jaw: the implanted post stabilizes the bone tissue and minimizes changes in the structure and appearance of the jaw and lower face.
- Normal chewing and speech: the secure, stable implant allows patients to enjoy their favorite foods, biting and chewing normally. It also allows for confident speech with no fear that an unstable denture or bridge will fall out.
- Supports gum health: permanent and secure, the implant does not irritate the gums and helps support gum health and tissue stability around it.
Very positive experience. My examination and cleaning was very thorough. Dr. Thoman asked questions and listened to my answers.Robert A.
Everyone should have a dental practice like this one! Everyone is helpful and kind. Questions are answered, procedures explained, no rushed feeling here. The cleaning and X-rays were done gently. Costs for services are very reasonable.Dianne J.
I haven't been a patient here long, but came in with "problem" teeth so have had multiple appointments. I get the feeling Dr. Thoman truly cares about my overall dental well-being for the future, not just treating the specific problems I come in for. I feel very comfortable with all the staff, and have had very good experiences since I started coming here about one year ago.Paula H.
Dental Implants What to Expect
The dental implant process has two distinct phases, ending with a new tooth or a permanently secured restoration that will fit, feel and function like natural teeth. Drs. Robin or Carole Thoman will meet with you to evaluate the condition of your oral health and to discuss your goals for the restoration of your smile.
If you require tooth extractions or any other dental treatments to prepare your mouth for the placement of an implant we will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.
Dental implants: am I a candidate?
The advances made in techniques and the ability to improve the condition of a patient’s bone structure through grafting have opened the door to patients previously not considered candidates for implants. Dr. Thoman can work with you on an individual basis to address issues that would compromise results and re-establish a healthy foundation for the placement of a dental implant.
The first step is to surgically place the titanium post into the jaw bone. Once in place, the soft tissues will need to heal and a period of 3-6 months is average for both recovery and to allow the process of osseointegration to take place. During this period, the new post integrates with the bone tissue to create a stable position in the jaw.
Once the gums have healed, we will uncover the top of the post and attach an abutment. This collar-like piece will connect the post and the final restoration. We often allow several weeks time before placing the final dental crown or securing a new bridge or denture to be sure the gums are healed and stable after placing the abutment.
Dr. Thoman will permanently secure the custom crown, bridge or denture at the final visit in the process. Once complete, your smile is ready to be shared confidently and will provide many years of stable oral health with proper dental care.
Dental implants can be cared for like natural teeth and we will monitor the condition of the implant and surrounding tissues during routine preventive dental care visits. There may be special care instructions for certain types of implant dentures and we will go over these during your placement visit.
