Dr.Timothy C.Burke is a dentist and who has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Implants.
Q. What are dental implants?
A. Dental implants are substitutes for the roots of missing teeth. They act as a foundation to which may be attached some form of tooth replacement- either fixed, which stays in the mouth like natural teeth; or removable, which is removed at night and for cleaning. While implants have been used since the time of Ancient Egypt, it is since the 70’s and the use of titanium that they have become a predictable and widespread option to replace teeth.
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
A. It is often said that dentures are not a replacement for teeth, they are a replacement for NO teeth. With implants, we finally have a reliable replacement for teeth. When restored, implants look, feel and chew like natural teeth.
Another advantage is that with an implant you can say goodbye to cavities and root canals on that tooth. You aren’t totally out of the woods though- periodontal disease and cavities are still possible here as well as your remaining natural teeth, so keep brushing and flossing! Also, they help to prevent the bone shrinkage associated with tooth loss.
One of the main complaints about dentures (besides moving around!) is the loss of taste which can occur. With implants, taste and chewing ability is normal, so your quality of life is vastly improved.
Q. How long does an implant last?
A. That’s a tough question… how long does an artificial hip last, or a dryer for that matter? It mainly depends on what you started with and how it’s used. You have to consider the condition of the jaw bone when the surgery is done, how hard it is used, how well it is maintained, among other things. That said, there are MANY implants out there that have been in place for over 30 years and show no sign of giving up. Considering that new technology is far better than that used when they were put in, I think we can expect a corresponding increase in longevity. Plus, it is generally accepted that implants are one of the most dependable of all the treatments that Dentists do.
Even given all this, the single most important factor that will absolutely ensure the longest life, is the patient maintaining meticulous hygiene and keeping frequent regular visits with your dentist.
Q. What are implants made of?
A. The body of the implant is made of titanium, a biocompatible metal which is shaped like the root of a tooth. In years past they were often smooth, but recently, various coatings have been used to improve the ability of bone to attach to the implant- making it stronger.
Q. Who is a candidate for implants?
A. Almost anyone in good health; age isn’t a factor once fully grown, and seniors with successful placements- there are cases where men and women in their 90’s have had implants placed with excellent result. There are certain medical conditions and situations where implants would not be a good idea. Poorly controlled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or taking certain medications like bisphosphonates (Fosamax & similar) can all create problems which might make dental implants a poor choice.
Q. How are dental implants placed?
A. A titanium screw or cylinder is placed in the jawbone under the gum, after which the bone proceeds to grow in and around the implant body in a process called osseointegration.
Q. How long does it take?
A. The surgical placement of the implant body takes about 1 hour, and is usually done with local anesthesia. Then the healing phase occurs, after which the restoration is placed. The entire process can take anywhere from 3-9 months.
Q. How to contact Dr. Burke if we have further questions?
A.
Address:
1620 W Hamilton St
Allentown, PA 18102
phone number: (610) 434-4901
Email: info@drburke.com
Website:http://drburke.com/
