Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr.G. Gregg Harrell on Dental Implants
Dr.G. Gregg Harrell is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Implants.
Q. What are dental implants?
A. A dental implant restoration consists of a bio-compatible titanium screw and post topped by a crown, bridge or denture. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone where it replaces the natural tooth root.
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
A. Six reasons why you should consider implants instead of other solutions.
1. They look, feel and function like your natural teeth.
2. Healthy teeth do not need to be ground down to support the dental implants.
3. Anchoring dental implants in the jawbone stimulates bone tissue and gums, ensuring an attractive, esthetic result while helping to maintain facial structures.
4. Dental implants do not require any adhesives to hold the new teeth in place.
5. They eliminate the discomfort and insecurity of loose, ill-fitting dentures.
6. You have a secure, permanent tooth replacement.
Q. How long does an implant last?
A. With proper maintenance and good home care a dental implant should last 15 years or more.
Q. What are implants made of?
A. The surgically placed implant consists of a bio-compatible titanium screw and post topped by a porcelain fused to metal crown, bridge or an acrylic denture.
Q. Who is a candidate for implants?
A. Are Dental Implants Right For You?
The most common indications for implant therapy are:
* Replacement of one or more missing teeth.
* Support of a non-removable "bridge" to replace multiple teeth.
* Support of a removable full or partial denture.
* Patients who successfully pass a screening and evaluation can be considered as candidates for implant replacement.
The primary limiting factor inherent in implant therapy is the amount of bone available to receive and support the implant. If it’s determined that a patient does not have enough bone to support an implant restoration, bone grafting procedures may be considered. Fully developed bone tissue is an important prerequisite. This is why dental implants are normally not installed in people under the age of 18. Heavy smoking and some medical conditions may preclude the use of implant therapy.
Q. How are dental implants placed?
A. There are two options for dental implant placement depending on your clinical situation.
* In a one-step procedure, the dentist makes an incision to expose the bone at the implant site and a temporary abutment is attached.
* In a two-step procedure, the dentist makes an incision to expose the bone at the implant site. The dentist then prepares the site to receive the implant. Once the implant is secured, the gum tissue is sutured back over the implant. The abutment is attached at a later date.
Both procedures are followed by a minimum healing period of three months for the lower jaw and six months for the upper jaw to allow it to osseointegrate with the bone. In some cases, the dental implant can be loaded immediately although this depends on your bone condition.
If the implant is in a visible area of the mouth, the patient may choose to wear a temporary prosthesis during the healing period. Dentures may be relined with soft liners to allow patients to comfortably wear them during the healing process.
When you are ready for a dental implant, you will have a solution custom tailored to your needs. Your general state of health and the quantity and quality of your bone tissue will be taken into consideration. These factors also determine the total duration of the treatment. Consult your dental professional for your specific options.
Q. How long does it take?
A. The implant placement surgery generally takes one and a half to two hours. The amount of time depends on the number of implants being placed and if there will be bone grafting done in conjunction with the implant placement.
Q. How to contact Dr. Harrell if we have further questions?
A.
Address:
1059 Eden Way North, Suite 100
Chesapeake, Virginia 23320
Phone: 757-547-2266
Email: kelly@dretheridge.com
Website: www.dretheridge.com
