A natural tooth is composed of two parts: the crown, which is the visible portion, and the root, which anchors the tooth to the supporting bone. When a tooth is extracted, both the crown and the root are removed together. A dental implant is utilized to replace the root before the final crown can be fabricated. With careful planning, 3D imaging and precise placement, dental implants can contribute to a patient’s function, esthetics and overall quality of life.
While dental implants can be used to restore a single tooth, they can also assist in the retention of dentures. Ill-fitting prosthetics are a common problem for patients living without their natural teeth. Dental implants provide a viable option to improve the fit, retention and function of removable dentures.
Implants can also replace a full arch of teeth with a fixed restoration. This course of treatment involves close collaboration between the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and the restorative dentist or Prosthodontist. Dr. Pierse routinely completes the surgical portion of the procedure with patients under IV sedation to provide a pain-free, comfortable environment. Once the surgery is completed, Dr. Pierse will also insert and adjust the initial restorations so that patients can leave Precision Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with teeth that are both functional and esthetically pleasing.
Our Approach to Dental Implants
Practitioners frequently refer patients to Dr. Pierse because of his unique background in both Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Prosthodontics. He works in close partnership with restoring clinicians to provide the best possible surgical outcome with the final restoration in mind. Each implant surgery is prosthetically driven. As a result, placement of dental implants and the final restorations promote natural-looking results.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process is patient dependent. However, it may begin by removing non-restorable teeth and placing bone grafts to augment the sites. During the recovery period, the bone grafts integrate with the native bone providing a stable platform for implant placement. Holes are drilled into the bone and the implants are placed with a specific amount of force. Over the months that follow, the supporting bone bonds to the implants, providing a “root form” for the final restoration. The implant is then uncovered by Dr. Pierse prior to the fabrication of the crown at the restorative dentist’s office.
Whether you want to restore your smile or improve your function, you may benefit from dental implants. Contact Precision Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery by phone at Phoenix Office Phone Number (623) 518-2325 or online.