Implants: A Second Chance For Your Smile
Every once in a while life gives us a second chance. For those who are missing teeth, implants are that second chance.
Today, in most cases, modern dental implants can replace the teeth you have lost. The major factors that contribute to success with dental implants are your bone and your bite.
About Your Bone
Because an implant must be placed in solid bone, the bone around an implant must be wide enough and high enough to hold and support the implant. Just as “you can’t put a screw in a hollow door,” your implant can only be successful if there is good, solid bone completely around it.
To evaluate the type, width, height, and density of your bone, we utilize 3-D imaging, called “Cone-Beam Computed Tomography” or CBCT. These scans are similar in technology to CAT scans, but with far less radiation and much less cost. At PAL, we do these scans right here in the office—no need for a separate visit to any other facility.
If you do not have enough bone for an implant, bone grafting will be required first. Most bone grafts are rather uncomplicated. Others are more involved. Sometimes, we can perform both the necessary bone graft and the implant at the same time.
But whatever the time frame, bone grafting should be considered first and foremost. Because when a tooth is removed, if a bone graft is not performed prior to the implant placement, your existing bone may shrink. That shrinkage can affect the success of the implant.
Just as not all bone grafts are the same, that’s also true for bone grafting technology. At PAL, we use the most modern forms of technology and materials, such as Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP-2) and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF). We use PDGF in all of our bone grafts. Research has confirmed that it enhances bone regeneration, and it is also widely and successfully used in advanced orthopedic surgery.
About Your Bite
Implants and natural teeth last longer when your jaws and teeth work in harmony. Every time you bite down and your upper and lower teeth come together, the forces on your teeth should be in alignment. When an implant is properly positioned and fused directly to the bone, these forces are evenly spread out. Excellent bone support and correct implant placement can help prevent injury and damage to the jaw, joint and bone. Off-center or misplaced implants can create lateral forces that, when you bite and chew, are harmful to bone. Clenching and grinding (also called “bruxism”) can cause similar damage, but wearing a night guard provides protection against this damage.