Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved so they can smile with confidence.

Dental Implant Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants at our offices in the Austintown, Boardman, & Liberty, OH (Ohio) area are discussed.

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What are Dental Implants?

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jaw where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure

Placement of dental implants may require one or two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jaw. If the circumstances are right, a small healing collar is attached to the implant and protrudes through the gum, completing the surgery in one step. Otherwise, the implants are beneath the gums and require a minor second surgical procedure in three to six months to uncover the implants. During the healing phase the implants are bonding to the jaw. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. The final artificial teeth are fabricated after the implant healing phase is complete. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jaw. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jaw. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jaw, the second phase begins. Dr. Billy and Dr. Wagley will uncover the implants and attach small posts which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed these posts will not be seen.