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. Timothy Huckabee on Dental Implants
Dr. Timothy Huckabee 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 is a small fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implant supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history.
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
A. Dental implants preserve the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss. There are numerous other benefits. For a single missing tooth, implants keep a one tooth problem a one tooth problem. Older restorative options involved grinding down adjacent healthy teeth for bridgework. For multiple tooth loss and full mouth tooth loss, dental implants provide a strong, permanent anchor for state-of-the-art prosthetics allowing for superior function and aesthetics.
Q. How long does an implant last?
A. We use the Dentsply Akylos Implant System. Our dental implants come with a lifetime guarantee provided patients abide by our post operative instructions and keep annual checkups with our office.
Q. What are implants made of?
A. Implants are made of titanium.
Q. Who is a candidate for implants?
A. Anyone missing at least one permanent tooth with adequate space and bone for placement is a candidate for implants. Certain medical conditions and heavy smoking can exclude patients from being good candidates. We recommend scheduling for a consultation with the dentist to determine if dental implants are right for you.
Q. How are dental implants placed?
A. First, records are taken to locate the perfect placement for the implant. Local numbing medication is administered. After the area is accessed and sterilized with a CO2 laser, the implant is placed into the bone of the jaw with a special handpiece. A final x-ray is taken to verify the implant is in the correct location. There is usually very little discomfort following the implant placement. Most patients report they do not even need to take pain medication afterwards.
Q. How long does it take?
A. From start to integration to finished restoration, dental implants usually take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to complete treatment. The treatment is performed in phases. First, the actual placement of the implants takes approximately 30 minutes per implant. They are then left undisturbed for a period of about three months for proper integration with the bone. The next phase involved uncovering the top of the implant and placing an abutment. This abutment is customized to fit the threading of the implant and is the part that is seen above the gumline that attaches to the restoration. The placement of the abutment and impressions for the restorations take about 30 minutes. Depending on the type of restoration that will be fabricated, it will take another two weeks to a month for final delivery. On special occasions we can place dental implants and provide an "immediate load" in which we can perform the surgery and deliver the prosthetic in one appointment. Each case is unique and dental implants can be used in a wide variety of treatment plans.
Q. How to contact Dr. Huckabee if we have further questions?
A.
Address:
505 West Southlake Blvd
Southlake, Texas 76092
Phone : 817-329-4746
Email: info@dfwdental.com
Website: http://www.dfwdental.com/
