What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants look and feel like normal teeth. They are an excellent alternative to partial or complete dentures. Dental implants are a comfortable, permanent and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. The implant process takes six to nine months and requires three appointments with Dr. Kenney.

A dental implant is a small titanium cylinder that is surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone and serves as a root substitute for a natural tooth. During a 4-6 month healing period the bone will fuse to the implant and anchor it in the mouth. These anchors provide a strong foundation for replacing single or multiple teeth.

For over 30 years implants have resulted in beautiful smiles for patients. They result in a more natural type of tooth replacement that can restore your previous chewing ability, improve appearance, and renew self-confidence.

The Surgical Procedure
The placement of dental implants most often involve two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. The implants remain below the surface of the gum for a four to six month healing period and gradually fuse to the jawbone. You can continue to wear your dentures or temporary teeth during this time.

After the implant has bonded to the bone or "osseointergrated", Dr. Kenney performs a minor procedure to uncover the implants. Small posts are attached to the implants. These posts protrude through the gums and will serve as anchors for the replacement teeth (Photo A Below). The entire procedure takes six to eight months. Most patients experience very little disruption from their normal life patterns. Cases that require bone grafting due to inadequate bone for implant placement would require additional healing time.

Are Dental Implants for Me?

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, dental implants may be a good choice for you:

Do you wear a full or partial denture that causes you pain when you eat?
Do you wear a full or partial denture that fits badly and sometimes slips?
Are any of your remaining teeth becoming loose or crooked?
Are you embarrassed about dentures or missing teeth when you smile or laugh?
Do problems with a full or partial denture prevent you from eating in public?
Does wearing dentures keep you from being socially or physically active?
Do you need to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth?
Are you willing to expend extra time on oral hygiene for your dental implants?
Are you willing to follow up with regularly scheduled dental checkups?

Dr. Kenney has an extensive background in implantology. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/ Implant Dentistry, the highest credential available. He has practiced implant dentistry for almost 20 years.

Implant patients often report feeling more confident about their smiles. Implants remove the fear of denture accidents and make eating, smiling and talking worry-free.

Get Started Now! Request a Consultation with Dr. Kenney today.