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 themselves are tiny titanium 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.

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. Colón has received extensive training in Implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1993. Through residency training and continuing education, Dr. Colón is knowledgeable of the most current information on implant dentistry.

Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a periodontal/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, Dr. Colón will address your specific needs and 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 your insurance plan allows.

Procedures

Dental implants are titanium anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are attached to the implant to provide stable anchors in the gums for replacement teeth.

The process starts when a CAT scan or radiograph is taken of the patient's jawbone. Dr. Colón will help you decide which evaluation tools are best for you.  While CAT scans can increase costs, they offer additional information that can allow more accurate implant placement, and less chair time for the patient at the surgery office visit.

In many cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.  For other patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. In those cases first, implants are placed. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person, based on a variety of factors, including the quality of bone. For the first few months following surgery, the implants are at the gum level or beneath the surface of the gums gradually integrating with the jawbone. You should be able to have a normal diet during this healing time.

After the implant has integrated, the second phase begins. Dr. Colón will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. After two weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression is taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire implant procedure can take several moths but the exact amount varies.  Most patients do not experience significant disruption in their daily life.