Dr. Matthews has restored hundreds of dental implants with more than 35 years of restorative dentistry experience. Dental implants allow us to replace missing teeth with results that look and feel incredibly natural. An alternative to traditional dentures, dental implants often yield permanent results that are so much like your natural teeth you may have a tough time telling the difference!
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants and restorations can be a great option for replacing missing teeth or anchoring loose dentures or partials and can provide a natural and comfortable way to improve a patient’s bite, smile, and confidence. After examination, medical and dental history review, radiographs, and photos, we will determine if implants are right for you.
A dental implant is a surgical grade, titanium root form. They have threads and are screwed into the bone where the natural tooth were and then allowed to integrate into the patient’s bone before being used to replace teeth or anchor dentures. The placement is often done with local anesthetic. There is seldom much pain or discomfort post op.
After the surgeon determines that the implant is successfully integrated into the bone, Dr. Matthews will take impressions for the custom abutment and crown to be made by the lab. There is no need for anesthetic as only screw drivers and impression materials are used, No shots or drills!
The result is often a tooth that looks and functions like the original tooth. Implants typically have over a 95% success rate. Poor hygiene, smoking, certain medical conditions, trauma, grinding, and clenching are some of the factors that may lead to implant failure. Dr. Matthews and his staff will review these factors with you and determine the possible influence in your specific situation.
Today’s dental implants give us choices beyond removable dentures and partials
Dental Implant Expectations at Our Eureka Office
Implants can provide many years of service whether replacing missing teeth or anchoring dentures or partials; however, commitment to care must be accepted by the patient. Daily proper at-home cleaning by the patient and once or twice yearly follow-up by the hygienist and dental staff are critical to long term success. Medical conditions such as diabetes, hormones, or conditions where the body’s defense mechanisms are compromised may affect the implant survival. Smoking, clenching of the jaws, teeth grinding, and other habits must be controlled for optimum implant success.