Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are devices that are used to replace a missing tooth. Unlike bridges and dentures that rest on top of the gum, implants are anchored in the jaw bone so the replacement tooth or crown is very stable and looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth. Dental implants use a metal post that's implanted into the bone. These posts can be used to replace a single tooth or they can be used to attach to a denture, replacing more than one tooth while providing a much more secure fit compared to traditional dentures. Dr. Blanco uses innovative 3D scanning technology to plan the placement of dentures and to model the exact size and shape of the crowns needed to provide a natural and attractive smile.

Are dental implants better than bridges and dentures?

Dental implants are a permanent alternative to dentures and bridges and while the there are many benefits associated with dental implants, they are not better than other prosthetic options, just different. Dr. Blanco works closely with his patients to determine which treatment will best suit their needs and their budget. Some of the benefits of dental implants include:

• Because they're implanted into the jaw bone, they're very secure, which means there's no risk of embarrassing slippage or painful sore spots on the gums or cheeks.
• Secure implantation means patients can eat more foods without risking breakage and without having food become trapped beneath the device.
• Implants can be cared for just like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing and routine trips to the dentist.
• Implants are long-lasting and durable, and with proper care, they're designed to last as long as natural teeth – or longer.
• Unlike dentures and bridges that rest on the gum, the metal implants help stimulate the replenishment of bone tissue in the jaw, avoiding bone atrophy that occurs with both dentures and bridges so overall oral health is improved.

What happens during an implant procedure?

After Dr. Blanco has determined that you are a good candidate for dental implants and planned out the placement and best crown solutions. The placement of implants typically takes three visits which Dr. Blanco coordinates with an oral surgical specialist. During the first visit, the post is implanted into the jaw bone and bone grafts are placed when necessary to augment the existing bone. The post remains undisturbed for several weeks to allow it to fuse with the bone and become stable. At the next visit, Dr. Blanco attaches an abutment which connects the post and the crowns, and an impression is made and sent to a lab where the prosthetic tooth or crown is created. At the third visit, the crown is attached to the abutment and gently polished so it fits comfortably and feels completely natural.