Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live with the premature loss of teeth by providing the most natural replacement option. They are so stable and functional that patients can chew almost anything with comfort and confidence. The new teeth appear natural and maintain facial contours important for a beautiful and youthful appearance.

The implants themselves are small titanium fixtures that are placed into the jawbone with precision by Dr. Blanchard. The bone quickly bonds with the fixtures to create a strong foundation for the new teeth. The new replacement teeth are then custom fabricated by your general dentist taking into account your individual tooth shade, shape and bite. Dr. Blanchard and his staff work closely with the restorative dentist and dental laboratory to meet the patient’s goals and exceed their expectations.

Dr. Blanchard and his staff have received extensive education in oral implantology and advanced tissue engineering techniques. He has been placing dental implants since 1989 and keeps abreast of current information, techniques and emerging technology through continuing education. He also hosts a study group consisting of area dentists to provide continuing education with an emphasis on dental implants.

Dental Implant Evaluation

If you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, implant dentistry is an option for you. At your implant evaluation we will conduct a review of you medical history and a dental exam possibly including x-rays if needed. Dr. Blanchard may recommend a CAT scan to evaluate potential implant sites in your mouth using this advanced imaging tool. We have a 3-D cone beam CAT scan in our office making it easier to obtain these images conveniently with a lower x-ray dose, and at a reduced cost when compared to typical medical CAT scans. Once all of this data has been evaluated we will discuss with you your needs and offer solutions to the challenges identified. In many cases this can take place in a single one hour or less appointment. In more complex cases Dr. Blanchard may need to consult with your general dentist to work out the details of your treatment before presenting you with a plan. Any questions or concerns that you have will be discussed before any treatment is scheduled. We want to make sure that you are completely comfortable during all of your visits with us. If you have any special needs or requests, please ask any of the staff and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Dr. Blanchard’s staff members are all familiar with the different aspects of dental implant treatment, but we also have a full time Dental Implant Coordinator who, with Dr. Blanchard, oversees all aspects of you care from initial contact over the phone to getting your replacement teeth with you dentist. She is an excellent resource and will make sure that you are comfortable and informed at all steps along the way to your new smile.

Procedures

Dental implants are metal 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 most patients, the placement of dental implants involves a single surgical procedure. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person, based on a variety of factors that include hardness of bone, medical conditions and medications. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.

For the first two to four months following surgery, the implants are at the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist may design the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes two to four months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.