Dental Implants
Dr. Lieu of Blue Apple Dental Group in Rohnert Park is a Dental Implants Specialist.
Complimentary Dental Implants Consultation or Second Opinion
A dental implant is an option to replace a missing tooth. In this procedure, a small titanium dental implant is surgically implanted in the bone and allowed to set. The bone grows around it, forming a tight connection.
Once the dental implant is firmly set in the mouth, the dentist then puts a replacement tooth on top of the dental implant. This permanent solution has the advantage over a bridge, in that it does not stress the surrounding teeth for support, and there is no chance for recurring decay and need for replacing another bridge one day.
A dental implant with locator attachments are another great option for stabilizing loose dentures.
CEREC -Dental Implant crowns
CEREC is a popular technology used by dentists to create custom dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and inlays, in a single appointment. The process begins with a digital scan of the patient’s mouth, which is used to create a 3D model of the restoration. The dentist then uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to design the restoration, taking into account factors such as the shape and color of the surrounding teeth. Once the design is complete, the restoration is milled from a block of ceramic material using a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) machine. The finished restoration is then checked for fit and adjusted as needed.
One of the main advantages of CEREC is that it allows the restoration to be made in a single appointment, rather than requiring multiple visits. This is convenient for patients and can save time and money. CEREC restorations are also known for their accuracy and durability, as they are made using high-quality ceramic material and are custom-fit to the patient’s mouth. Overall, CEREC technology has revolutionized the way dentists create custom dental restorations and has made the process faster, more accurate, and more convenient for patients.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure in which bone tissue is transplanted from one area of the body to another. It is often used in dental implant surgery to provide a strong foundation for the implant. The jawbone is the most common site for dental implant surgery, and it is important that the bone be strong and dense enough to support the implant. If the jawbone is too thin or soft, it may not be able to support the implant, which can lead to implant failure.
In these cases, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the jawbone and create a stable foundation for the implant. There are several types of bone grafting procedures that can be used, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Autogenous bone grafts involve using bone from the patient’s own body, such as from the hip or the jaw. Allogenic bone grafts involve using bone from a donor, while synthetic bone grafts involve using a synthetic material that is designed to mimic the properties of natural bone.
Bone grafting is a complex surgical procedure that requires careful planning and execution. It is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who is a specialist in the treatment of the mouth, teeth, and facial structures. The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and may require an overnight stay in the hospital. After the bone graft has been completed, the patient will need to undergo a period of healing before the dental implant can be placed.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants are a type of dental implant that is smaller in diameter than regular dental implants. They are typically used to support dentures, and can be placed in the lower jaw without the need for bone grafting. Mini dental implants have a diameter of about 3mm to 4mm, which is significantly smaller than regular dental implants, which are typically 5mm to 6mm in diameter.
One of the main advantages of mini dental implants is that they are less invasive than regular dental implants. Because they are smaller in diameter, they require a smaller surgical incision and cause less trauma to the surrounding tissue. This can result in a shorter healing time and less discomfort for the patient. Mini dental implants are also easier to place in areas of the jaw that have limited bone density, such as the lower jaw, as they do not require as much bone to support them.
Despite their small size, mini dental implants are strong and stable, and are able to support the same types of dental prosthetics as regular dental implants. They are typically used to support dentures, and can help to improve the fit and stability of the dentures, making it easier for the patient to eat and speak. Overall, mini dental implants are a good option for patients who are missing teeth and want to use dentures, but do not have enough bone density to support regular dental implants.
Regular Dental Implant
A regular dental implant is a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Dental implants are made of biocompatible material, which means that they are accepted by the body and do not cause an immune response. Once the implant has been placed in the jawbone and has had time to heal and integrate with the bone (a process called osseointegration), it can be topped with a crown, bridge, or denture to restore function and esthetics to the mouth.
Dental implants are considered to be a very effective and long-lasting solution for tooth loss. They are strong and stable, and can withstand the same forces as natural teeth. They are also highly esthetic, as they can be made to closely match the appearance of the surrounding teeth. Regular dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, and can be used in the upper or lower jaw.
The process of getting a dental implant typically involves several steps and may take several months to complete. It begins with a consultation with a dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon, during which the patient’s medical and dental history is reviewed and a treatment plan is developed. The next step is the surgical placement of the implant, which is usually done under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. After the implant has been placed and has had time to heal and integrate with the bone, the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) is attached to the implant. The entire process can take several months, as it takes time for the implant to heal and integrate with the bone.
Dental Implant Crowns
A dental implant crown is a type of dental restoration that is used to replace a missing tooth. It consists of two parts: the dental implant and the crown. The dental implant is a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for the root of the missing tooth. The implant is made of biocompatible material, which means that it is accepted by the body and does not cause an immune response.
Once the implant has been placed in the jawbone and has had time to heal and integrate with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a crown is attached to the implant. The crown is a custom-made ceramic or porcelain restoration that is made to match the shape, size, and color of the surrounding teeth. It is cemented or screwed onto the implant and covers the portion of the implant that is visible above the gum line.
Dental implant crowns are used to restore function and esthetics to the mouth following the loss of a tooth. They can be used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, and are generally considered to be a very effective and long-lasting solution for tooth loss. Implant-supported crowns are strong and stable, and can withstand the same forces as natural teeth. They are also highly esthetic, as they can be made to closely match the appearance of the surrounding teeth.
Implant-Attached Dentures
Implant-attached dentures, also known as overdentures, are a type of denture that is secured to the jawbone using dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which are held in place using suction or adhesive, implant-attached dentures are more stable and do not shift or move around in the mouth. This can make it easier for the patient to eat, speak, and perform other activities that may be difficult with traditional dentures.
To secure the dentures to the jawbone, the patient will need to undergo a surgical procedure to place dental implants in the jaw. The number of implants required will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the type of denture being used. Once the implants have had time to heal and integrate with the bone (a process called osseointegration), the dentures can be attached to the implants using special attachments.
There are several types of implant-attached dentures, including bar-retained dentures and ball-retained dentures. Bar-retained dentures are secured to the implants using a metal bar that runs along the gum line, while ball-retained dentures are secured to the implants using a ball-and-socket system. Both types of implant-attached dentures are highly stable and can provide a secure and comfortable fit for the patient.
Overall, implant-attached dentures are a good option for patients who are missing all of their teeth and want a more stable and comfortable alternative to traditional dentures. They are typically more expensive than traditional dentures, but many patients find that the improved stability and comfort are worth the extra cost.
Sinus Lifts
A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that is used to increase the height of the jawbone in the upper back teeth area. It is often necessary when placing dental implants in this area, as the sinuses are located close to the jawbone and can limit the amount of bone available for the implant.
During the sinus lift procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted and bone graft material is placed in the space between the sinus and the jawbone. The bone graft material is usually taken from the patient’s own body, such as from the hip or the jaw. It can also be taken from a donor or be synthetic material designed to mimic the properties of natural bone. The bone graft material helps to build up the bone and provide a stable foundation for the implant.
Sinus lifts are typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who is a specialist in the treatment of the mouth, teeth, and facial structures. The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and may require an overnight stay in the hospital. After the sinus lift has been completed, the patient will need to undergo a period of healing before the dental implant can be placed.
Overall, sinus lifts are a useful procedure for patients who want to get dental implants in the upper back teeth area, but do not have enough bone density to support the implants. They can help to increase the amount of available bone and provide a stable foundation for the implants, which can improve the chances of success.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a surgical procedure that is used to encourage the growth of new bone and gum tissue. It is often used in cases where the bone and gum tissue around a tooth have been damaged or lost due to periodontal disease or injury. Periodontal disease is a serious infection of the gums and surrounding tissue that can lead to the loss of bone and gum tissue, and can ultimately result in the loss of the tooth.
During the GTR procedure, a small piece of mesh-like material is placed between the bone and gum tissue. The material is usually made of a synthetic material that is designed to be biocompatible with the body. It acts as a scaffold to support the growth of new bone and gum tissue, and helps to guide the tissue in the correct direction. The material also helps to prevent the gum tissue from growing into the area where the bone should be, which can interfere with the healing process.
GTR is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who is a specialist in the treatment of the mouth, teeth, and facial structures. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation, and may require an overnight stay in the hospital. After the GTR procedure has been completed, the patient will need to undergo a period of healing before the damaged tooth can be restored.
Overall, GTR is a useful procedure for patients who have lost bone and gum tissue due to periodontal disease or injury. It can help to encourage the growth of new tissue and restore the foundation of the
Dental Implant Failure Treatments
If a dental implant fails, it means that the implant has either become loose or has failed to integrate with the surrounding bone (a process called osseointegration). Dental implant failure can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, improper placement, or insufficient bone density. If a dental implant fails, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the surrounding bone and tissue.
The most common treatment for dental implant failure is to remove the failed implant and place a new one. This may require another surgical procedure, and the patient will need to undergo a period of healing before the new implant can be placed. In some cases, it may be possible to salvage the failed implant by performing a bone graft or other procedure to strengthen the foundation of the implant. This may allow the implant to integrate with the surrounding bone and be restored.
In rare cases, it may be necessary to remove the failed implant and not replace it. This may be necessary if the patient has a serious infection or if the surrounding bone has been damaged to the point where it is not possible to place a new implant. In these cases, other options for replacing the missing tooth, such as a bridge or a denture, may be recommended.
Overall, the treatment for dental implant failure will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the needs of the patient. It is important to work closely with a dental professional to determine the best course of action.
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