Dental implants are a great choice for replacing one or several missing teeth.  Implants are a safe and predictable treatment option with a success rate in our office of over 95%.  A dental implant is a titanium post or screw that is placed into the jawbone.  Titanium and the jawbone are very compatible and actually fuse together in a process called osseo-integration.  This fusion process, which takes between 2-6 months, is how implants achieve their long-term stability.  During this time the implant is left alone to heal.  Once the healing process is complete, the implant or implants can be used to support a dental restoration to replace the following:

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• An individual missing tooth with a permanent crown

• Multiple missing teeth in a specific area with a permanent, non-removable bridge

• Multiple or all missing teeth with a permanent, non-removable bridge

• Multiple or all missing teeth with a permanent, removable bridge or denture

 

The implant process is completed in multiple stages and Dr. Laborde will work with your dentist to make sure that they achieve the best possible outcome.  The implant placement procedure is completed in our office and can be done with local anesthesia or using a one of our sedation options.  During the healing process, you will have the option of wearing a temporary crown.  Rest assured that you will never have to go without a tooth because the temporary is made prior to or at the time of the procedure.  There are several factors that must be considered prior to placing an implant.  Some of these factors are the following:

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• Medical Conditions

• Quantity and quality of jaw bone

• A tooth or teeth that need to be extracted

• Gum tissue health

• History of smoking

 

Dr. Laborde will conduct a thorough examination prior to the surgical procedure.  A CT scan is often taken at the consultation appointment to precisely measure the jawbone and locate important structures such as nerves and sinus cavities.  See our section on CT scans and computer guided surgery to learn more about the importance of these tools.  The majority of people are candidates for dental implants and new advances in technology have allowed us to place implants in areas that were previously not an option.  As a dental implant specialist, Dr. Laborde has extensive training and experience in placing implants and educating patients and other dentists about the process.  He also uses the latest technology and best quality materials to ensure that the procedures are as safe and comfortable as possible.  Contact us today to set up a dental implant consultation!