Implant Dentistry

Dental Implants are substitute or replacement tooth roots. A tooth consists of a crown and a root. The crown is that part of the tooth which is visible in the mouth. The root is under the gum tissue, surrounded by the bone. The crown is supported by the root portion, which is attached to the bone. Implants are placed into the bone so that a prosthetic crown (the visible part of your tooth) can be firmly attached. State-of-the-art technology in implant dentistry makes it possible to provide replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth.

Loss of natural teeth can dramatically alter your facial appearance and affect your attitude towards life. Missing teeth can lead to loss of self-esteem and embarrassment. Dental implants can help you regain your natural smile, improving your appearance and self- confidence. They can also increase your comfort by eliminating loose fitting complete and partial dentures. Dental implants acts to stop the deterioration in the jawbone, which occurs when the natural teeth are lost. Overall health is improved with the ability to eat virtually anything with ease, and self-confidence is renewed with the knowledge that appearance is natural once again.

There are two different surgical procedures for dental implant placement. You should discuss with your prosthodontist which one is best for you. With a two step system, the implant is placed in the jawbone below the gum line, which is then sutured over and allowed to heal. After a healing process a second stage is necessary to open the gum so that the tooth can be replaced. With a one step or single-stage system only one surgical procedure is required. At the time of placement the top of the implant is level with the gums and remains visible. After an adequate healing period the tooth replacement phase can proceed without the need for a second surgical procedure. The healing phase ranges from six weeks to six months depending on each individual’s clinical requirements. In order to make your replacement tooth your prosthodontist will need to make x- rays, impressions, bite registration records and various fittings. As a result of these efforts and years of experience, your replacement tooth will blend beautifully with your existing teeth and function normally.

Dr. Tregaskes uses Shade Vision, a computerized device that exactly matches the color of your teeth.