Surgical Procedures
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.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life. Dr Manhart has received extensive training in implant dentistry. He has been successfully placing implants since 1990. Through continuing education, Dr Manhart is abreast of the most current information in the rapidly changing part of dentistry.
Dental Implant Overview
For a brief narrated overview of the dental implant process, please click the image below. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about dental implants.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
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 themselves are small titanium screws or posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person, based on a variety of factors that include hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored shortly after they are placed.
In more extensive cases where bone is soft, marginal in quality or where bone grafting has been performed the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. This may take anywhere for 3-6 months. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr Manhart will uncover the implants and attach either a small healing collar or the final abutment depending on the desires of your dentist. After a few weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. The teeth replacements are made to fit over the abutment or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months, however many cases are being done in less time today. The specific amount of healing time needed for you will depend on the condition of the bone at the time the implant is placed. The majority of dental implant patients experience little disruption of their daily life when going through treatment.
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, Dr Manhart will address your specific needs and clinical considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.
We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.