What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an appliance used to replace the roots of teeth. A dental implant is placed where the roots of the tooth used to be and a porcelain tooth is bonded to the top of the implant, creating a natural looking, undetectable replacement for the missing tooth.  In the event that more than one tooth is missing, several implants may provide a base for a series of porcelain teeth known as a fixed bridge. Implants can, in fact, be used to secure a full set of teeth.

This page contains a lot of information to help you better understand your options and the “inns and outs” of dental implants. We would also love to provide a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

The Dental Implant Process

Dental Implant posts are inserted into the bone using precision technique. Dr. Owens relies on advanced imaging to determine the correct depth and location of each post in order to achieve the greatest stability. Comfort is maintained throughout the procedure with local anesthetic.  Sedation is also an option if you feel anxious about your procedure.

After dental implants have been inserted and covered with gum tissue, they will start to become integrated with the bone. Over the course of three to six months, bone will naturally grow around each post. Once this process of integration and healing has been completed, implants are ready to restore and will have the stability of your natural teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Stabilized implants can support a crown, bridge, or full denture.
• The secure foundation of implants lets you chew comfortably and confidently.
• You can feel good about your smile and never worry that a denture will slip out of place.
• Because dental implants are situated in the bone, degradation of the jawbone does not occur as it would with dentures or a bridge.
• The preservation of bone and replacement of teeth keeps facial structure from sinking inward.

Learn More About Dental Implants

A dental implant is a structure, often a titanium post or screw, which replaces a natural tooth root and serves as a foundation onto which Dr. Owens can attach a prosthetic tooth or bridge. Most dental implants are Endosteal –  a dental implant that is surgically attached into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gums have healed, a “post” is adhered to the implant, and the artificial tooth is then attached to the post.

Three major components of a dental implant:

1. The Implant – This is a metal post or framework that is either placed into or on top of the jawbone. It acts as the root for the new tooth.
2. The Abutment – The abutment is attached to the implant and sticks above the gum line, so it can hold the artificial tooth in place.
3. The Crown – The new tooth is referred to as a crown. It is ceramic and is affixed solidly to the abutment.

How do I know if I need a Dental Implant?

If you have a missing tooth due to extraction, injury, or periodontal disease, the structural integrity of your jaw can be compromised, which puts your jaw at risk for further bone loss or deterioration. The purpose of a dental implant is to help prevent continued breakdown of bone and to maintain the structure of your jaw. Dental implants also assist in eating and chewing, since a lost tooth can interfere with those tasks.

Another function of a dental implant is to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. An implant makes it possible to replace a missing tooth with a prosthetic that blends in seamlessly with your other teeth and provides a natural look while filling in any unsightly gaps.

What Makes Dental Implants So Great?

Dental Implants provide the best possible replacement for your natural tooth both functionally and aesthetically. The unique thing about dental implants is that they fuse directly to your jawbone and provide a solid foundation for artificial teeth. With implants, the replacement teeth that Dr. Owens puts in won’t shift or move in your mouth. This allows you to eat and talk normally and smile with confidence! Can you imagine how that would improve your quality of life? Now you see why we think dental implants are so great!

Sedation dentistry has allowed many patients to receive the dental care they need. Patients who were previously not able to tolerate dental work because of anxiety, fear, gag reflexes, etc. can easily overcome these restraints with sedation. Our doctors offer a few different options for sedation dentistry and the team can find the perfect fit for your situation at your first appointment.

Reasons to Consider Sedation Dentistry

• You experience dental anxiety
• Overcome medical issues (extreme gag reflex, etc.)
• Related phobias
• Comfort during a longer procedure

Sedation Dentistry Options

IV Sedation Dentistry

IV sedation is a popular option for patients with extreme dental anxiety or a health condition that has previously prevented dental work. With IV Sedation, a medication is administered directly through the blood stream. Patients experience immediate relaxation and comfort. Dr. Owens has completed extensive education and training to obtain his IV sedation license and was one of the first in Fort Collins to offer sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry is safe and effective, and patients report very little to no memory of the procedure. Another reason that patients prefer IV Sedation Dentistry is that this form of sedation allows Dr. Owens and his team to treat the patient more efficiently, so that they can complete extensive treatment in one visit, instead of scheduling multiple appointments.

Oral Sedation Dentistry

With this option, sedation can be administered at a lighter level through a prescription tablet. In this form of sedation, the strength can be closely controlled, depending on the level to which the patient would like to be sedated. For example, one patient might only want enough oral sedation to take the “edge” or anxiety away, while another patient may prefer heavier medication so that they will sleep through the procedures.

20% of Americans experience enough dental anxiety to only go to the dentist when absolutely necessary.

Maintaining routine dental exams and cleanings is crucial to your oral health and can help prevent larger issues in the future. We are here to help our patients with anxiety so nothing stands in the way of their health. Questions about which sedation dentistry option is right for you? Please don’t hesitate to call; we would be more than happy to help you find the perfect solution to overcome your dental anxiety.

“I have an extreme fear of the dentist but Dr. Owens and his staff are so compassionate that I felt comfortable with them to get the dental work I needed done.”

Felicia