Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that 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. The implants are small titanium posts which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If you feel implant dentistry may be the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. Woo or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Woo and her surgical team work together to place and restore implants. There are situations where an immediate implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures. This will be determined by the oral surgeon or periodontist that is working with Dr. Woo on your specific implant case. 

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral surgeon or periodontist, and a restorative dentist.  Dr. Woo may perform the initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. Dr. Woo is the restorative dentist who makes the permanent prosthesis (final tooth that attaches to the implant). Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. You should be able to wear temporary teeth and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final prosthesis or implant crown, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the dental implant has integrated to the jaw bone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing cap. Dr. Woo can then start making your new teeth, utilizing precision attachments that are connected to the implants. The final teeth are then made over the attachments. The entire procedure from start to finish usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience much disruption in their daily life.