Dental Implants are the best technology that has happened in dentistry over the last decade!  Previously our patients with damaged or missing teeth had very few options except extraction.  Bridges and crowns were difficult in many cases, and always expensive.

Implants are a permanent solution that feel and look like natural teeth.  Chewing and speaking with implants is comfortable and requires no additional maintenance outside of a normal dental routine.  Dental implants typically last for twenty years.

Dr. Vaughan uses computer guided surgery and digital mapping that allows precise measurement and placement of a titanium post. After that post is in place and secure, a permanent crown is placed on top.  With this new technology, patients can have a brand-new tooth in only three to six months!

There are some requirements for implants that patients need to consider.  One must have good oral health and generally healthy gums.  Placing a tooth in a gum with ongoing disease would likely be unsuccessful.  Smoking, and jaw issues also diminish the success rate of implants.

Implants are often a less expensive option that complicated bridges and crowns.  Of course every case is different but generally speaking cost range between $1,000 – $4,000 per implant.

Implant procedures usually involve three steps:

The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering. The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it fuses with the bone, a process called “osseointegration.” There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.

The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Some implants require a second surgical procedure in which a post is attached to connect the replacement teeth. With other implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.

The dentist makes a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.

Come in for a free consultation.