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We provide the Oral and Maxillofacial procedures below to the Avon, CT area:
Dental Implants | Procedures
Dental implants are changing the way people live! They 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.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implant Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
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The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts, which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
Implants are an option for many patients. We have treated younger patients who never formed teeth or have lost teeth due to trauma. Even older patients tolerate the surgery well and most report it less bothersome than tooth extraction.
Implants can be used to anchor or stabilize loose dentures, providing a return to a more normal diet. Drs. Piecuch, Lieblich and Fletcher will work in close collaboration with your dentist to provide your care.
We invite you to schedule a consultation appointment to discuss with us the possibility of implant placement. We can show you specific examples of cases similar to yours and discuss your various treatment options.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one or two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first few 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.
Implant surgery is routinely done in our office. We have set up a room similar to a hospital operating room environment. The doctor and surgical assistant will be gowned and gloved in standard or sterile scrubs. The patient is also covered with sterile drapes. Patients receive antibiotics prior to surgery as well as using a prescription antibacterial mouth rinse. The surgery can usually be performed with local anesthesia, nitrous oxide and/or intravenous sedation. These options will be discussed at your consultation appointment.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Drs. Piecuch, Lieblich and Fletcher will attach 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 three to six months. Occasionally, it may be possible to place a temporary tooth immediately at the time of dental implant placement. Drs. Piecuch, Lieblich and Fletcher can address this possibility at your surgical consultation. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.
