Replacing One or More Teeth

Dr. Hochberg is trained to both surgically place and restore dental implants. Whatever your dental restoration needs, Colony Square Dental can do it all in one convenient location.

If you are in need of a cosmetic restoration of any kind, dental implants can be an excellent solution to resolve the issue of missing teeth. Dental implants are often a vital part of our full- mouth restorations and can be used in combination with crowns and veneers and can even be used to support a cosmetic bridge or dentures.

Dental Implant placement begins with a thorough review of your medical and health history ensuring you are a candidate for the procedure. Then a pre-surgical assessment of surrounding bone is completed utilizing both models and often CAT scans.

CT 3-Dimensional Scan

At Colony Square Dental Associates, in many cases we employ the acuity and precision of advanced technology when placing dental implants by making a CT 3-dimensional scan.

Unlike traditional 2-dimensional x-rays this 3D diagnostic tool allows us to obtain a more precise image for implant placement planning. With this detailed image, we are better able to determine the precise size and position for your new dental implant, so you enjoy optimal fit, function, comfort and appearance from your new smile!

How do Dental Implants replace one or more teeth?

If you are missing a single tooth, often one implant, which replaces the root, and an implant crown, replacing the visible portion of your tooth, is an excellent treatment solution. If more than one tooth is missing either a series of individual implants or an implant-supported bridge is the ideal. Along with looking and functioning like a natural tooth, a dental implant also provides several advantages over other tooth replacement options. Unlike a tooth-supported fixed bridge that requires grinding down adjacent teeth to support the cemented bridge, an implant replaces a single tooth (teeth) without sacrificing the health of neighboring teeth. And, in addition, for patients with removable partial dentures, fixed implant supported bridges offer the next best thing to natural teeth – a non-removable restoration.

Also, because a dental implant will replace your tooth root, the bone is better preserved. With a traditional bridge or partial denture, some of the bone that previously surrounded the missing tooth root begins to resorb (deteriorate). Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, helping to keep the bone healthy and intact.

Some patients find that resorbed bone beneath the traditional bridge collapses leading to an unattractive smile. And, the cement holding the bridge in place can wash out, allowing bacteria to decay the teeth that anchor the bridge. In addition, removable partial dentures can move around in the mouth and reduce your ability to eat certain foods. In the long term, dental implants can be more esthetic and easier to keep clean than a partial denture. Increased function and comfort, along with a pleasing esthetic, can be obtained.

How will the implant be placed?

First, the implant(s), which looks like a screw, is placed into your jaw. Today’s surgical techniques typically allow us to secure a temporary healing abutment at the time of implant placement. This short extension heals level with the gum tissue providing access to your implant after your bone has matured. While your implants are healing, you will be provided with interim teeth so you leave our office with your smile intact. However, in certain instances, when less than adequate bone density the implant is left to heal under the gum. In this case a second surgery is necessary to uncover the implant.

Over the next two to six months, the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth. Upon healing the healing abutment is removed and a permanent extension, called an abutment, is secured. This completes the foundation on which your new tooth will be placed.

Finally, a replacement tooth called a crown will be created for you and attached to the abutment. After a short time, you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak. Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.

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