By Dr. Tamer Eshra
Since its beginnings in the 1950’s, dental implant surgery has become a standard practice in the world of dentistry. It is a common procedure for replacing a tooth that has been lost due to decay, accident, or any number of reasons. Dental implant surgery replaces tooth roots with a metal post and an artificial tooth that looks and functions like real teeth. It can be a great alternative to dentures or bridgework that often don’t fit well or don’t look natural.
A dental implant is composed of a surgically placed screw-type fixture made of titanium that is implanted into the jawbone and an artificial tooth. Once the post is implanted, it is left for a period of weeks in order to allow it to fuse completely with the bone in a process called “osseonintegration”. Later, a new replacement tooth is attached to this titanium post. The artificial tooth stands on its own, which means it does not affect the nearby teeth because it is not attached to them. The success rate of dental implants is nearly 98%.
What are the benefits of a dental implant?
Replacing a missing tooth, or teeth, can not only be aesthetically pleasing, but it can also impact one’s health. Here are some of the benefits of dental implants:
• Helps to stabilize nearby teeth
• Keeps the jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss
• Restores the ability to chew properly
• Preserves the health of the surrounding bone, gums, and teeth
What happens before, during, and after dental implant surgery?
During the planning stage of a dental implant surgery, the dental surgeon will review the mouth and any imaging (CT scans, x-rays, etc.) that has been done. An assessment will be done to determine the quality of the jawbone at the site where the implant is needed. Once it is determined that an implant can be placed in that location, the surgery can be scheduled.
The first phase of this oral surgery usually involves the extraction of the tooth or teeth that are damaged. Sometimes, once that has been done, an “bone graft” will need to be performed. In this procedure, a synthetic or cadaver bone is added to the existing jawbone to ensure a solid base for the titanium post that will later be inserted. This will be left to heal for two to six months. For some patients no bone graft is needed and the implant can be started as soon as the old tooth is extracted.
Once a strong bone base has been established and healing time is completed, dental implant surgery can begin. During this surgery, the surgeon cuts open the gum to expose the bone. Holes are drilled into the bone and the post is screwed deep into the bone. While this is left to heal, a temporary denture can be used for aesthetic purposes if desired. During the healing process (osseonintegration), the jawbone grows into and unites with the dental implant. This may take months, but it is necessary to ensure a solid base for the new tooth or teeth.
After osseointegration is complete, another small surgery may be needed in order to place an abutment on the post. This is what the new tooth will attach to. Sometimes this is done at the same time as the insertion of the metal post, other times it must be done separately. Once this is completed, there is another period of healing before the new tooth is attached.
Lastly, it is time for the placement of the crown, or artificial tooth. The patient and dental surgeon will work together to determine which type of tooth will be attached. Patients can choose between a removable or fixed crown, or a third option which combines both.
Usually, oral surgery is done under local anesthesia. Once that has worn off, there is likely to be at least some level of discomfort. Most people are able to control any post-surgery pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. A cold ice pack can also be used to help reduce swelling.
Where can I find a highly qualified and experienced oral surgeon?
Park Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Naples is ready to meet your dental needs. Dr. Tamer Esher, DDS, is a certified provider for immediate fixed total mouth rehabilitations. He implements the highest level of implant technology to deliver a beautiful, confidence-inspiring smile. Dr. Tamer Eshra, DDS is a certified provider for Hybridge and N-Sequence Full Mouth Over Implant Restoration.
His resume is filled with impressive credentials. He is a member of the American Academy of Laser Dentistry, a Surgical Implant Fellow of Misch Implant Institute, is licensed to provide both oral and IV sedation along with nitrous gas sedation, and utilizes the highest-end equipment like Digital Smile Design to achieve the optimal desired outcome for his patients.
Dr. Tamer Eshra
Dr. Eshra has soaked up education here and abroad, having studied at academic institutions such as the Medical School at Cairo University in Egypt, and Columbia University in New York, where he earned a doctorate degree in dental surgery.
Continuing his effort to provide the best dental care for his patients, Dr. Eshra has received advanced education in different aspects of dentistry; among them, soft tissue grafting, advanced bone grafting and sinus augmentation.
He holds a credo that a dentist must combine education with skill and a nurturing chairside manner. He believes that both he and his patients make up the framework of a team choosing the option for the best care possible.
Call Park Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today for an appointment at 239.206.1500 or make one online at www.myparkdental.com.