Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live. With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Dental implants are metal anchors which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. William Weber uncovers the implants and attachs small posts which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed these posts will not be seen. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Minor and Major Bone Grafting

Over a period of time, the jaw bone associated with missing teeth atrophies or resorbs. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants. Dr. Weber has pioneered a bone grafting technique in which bone is transplanted to these different areas in preparation of dental implant placement. The bone graft procedures are referred to as:

1. Sinus lift procedure- this procedure involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor
2. Ridge-augmentation- in severe cases the ridge has resorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width
3. Nerve- repositioning- The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin, may need to be moved in order to make room for placement of dental implants to the lower jaw.

These procedures may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individuals condition. There are several areas of the body which are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth.

We also utilize platelet rich-plasma (PRP) from small amounts of your own blood. This stimulates healing of the bone graft marrow and has proven to be a valuable adjunct to bone grafting in association with dental implants.

In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee. These surgeries are performed in the ambulatory surgical suite under I.V. sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day and limited physical activity for one week.