Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Sometimes a tooth simply can’t be saved (due to fracture, extensive decay, a hit to the face with a baseball bat, or maybe it wasn’t there in the first place. A dental implant offers a strong, natural-looking replacement without having to alter the healthy teeth around it, unlike a traditional bridge.

Dental implants are small posts placed in the jawbone that act as strong, stable roots for replacement teeth. Even if bone loss has occurred, implants may still be possible with the help of a bone graft. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implant-supported teeth stay securely in place—so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. To keep your implants healthy for years to come, regular dental checkups are essential

You are a good candidate for dental implants if you:

  • are healthy

  • have enough bone to anchor the implant

  • healthy gums

  • are committed to the health and the care of the implant(s)

What to Expect

Multiple appointments

Our office will always start with a referral to an oral surgeon or periodontist in our community who will evaluate the health of you, your gums and bone and discuss with you whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant.

If it is determined that an implant is good option for you, the specialist will get you numb, and will gently place the implant into the bone and the area will be closed to heal. Over the next two to three months, the implant naturally fuses with the bone—a process called osseointegration. Once healing is complete, he or she will place a small healing cap that shapes the gums and prepares the site for your final crown.

You will return to our office for an impression appointment. Dr Kramer will unscrew the healing cap and place an impression coping. A digital impression and photos will be taken and sent to our dental ceramist for fabrication of the dental implant crown. The healing cap will be replaced. We often recommend screw-retained implant crowns when possible.

You will return in two to three weeks for insertion of the final dental implant crown. The healing cap will be removed and a disinfecting solution will be applied to your implant before the final crown is placed. A dental x ray will be taken to ensure the proper fit.