surgical procedures

dental implant overview

For a brief narrated overview of the dental implant process, please click the image on the right. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about dental implants.

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more information

For more information on dental implants at our Austin, TX office, please give us a call at 512-454-6861.

Dental Implants

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

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 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 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.

Dr. Ferguson has received extensive training in Implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1992. Through continuing education, Dr. Ferguson is abreast 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 dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, Dr. Ferguson 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 to which you may be entitled.

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.

For some patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed in your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person, based on a variety of factors. In some cases, implants may be restored with a temporary crown immediately after they are placed, with the final crown being constructed a few months later.

For the first three to six 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 (if needed) and eat normally during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final crowns / bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. When necessary Dr. Ferguson will uncover the implant and attach a small healing collar. After two weeks your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. Posts or attachments are connected to the implants, and an impression is taken. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes four to six months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.