Peoria Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. They both contain a crown (the visible part used to chew food) and in natural teeth a root while in prosthetic teeth this is called the implant, which is the part of a tooth found below the gum and anchored into the jaw bone. The implant is made of either ceramic or titanium (the same material used by surgeons for the repair of fractured bones or artificial joints). When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, Dr. Pollaccia first replaces the root with the implant, and once he determines that your ready for the crown he will send you back to your referring doctor office, or suggest a colleague if you do not already have a general dentist.
Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In certain cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.
Surgical Advances in Dental Implants
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Pollaccia is able to place single stage implants in certain qualified patients. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six-eight weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
“For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.”
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Pollaccia performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis (crown). Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Looking For An Exceptional Oral Surgeon?
Dr. Pollaccia can treat a variety of problems related to the mouth, teeth and facial regions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!