You present yourself to the world first through your smile. When teeth are missing, even a single one, you may lose the confidence you once had in dealing with others. Thanks to advances in technology over the past several years, patients today have more options to restore both appearance and function when they have lost a tooth or need to replace several or all teeth.

With dental implants in Waterford, Dr. Heuerman can help restore a beautifully functional smile. Most people may receive a dental implant successfully. Before recommending this procedure, however, Dr. Heuerman will conduct a thorough assessment that includes evaluation of medical history, gum health and amount of jaw bone present. There are certain conditions that may impact a successful implant, including:

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• Blood disorders
• Parathyroid disorders
• Bone marrow cancer or certain bone disorders
• Low sinuses or nerve bundles

The dental implant process takes several months, dependent on the specific circumstances of the patient. In the initial procedure, the implant – a titanium screw – is inserted directly into the jaw bone while the patient is comfortably numbed. Gum tissue is fastened over the implant during this initial healing phase. In the days following this procedure, there may be some discomfort and swelling; both of which may be remedied with pain medications prescribed by Dr. Heuerman.

Over the next several months, the implant will begin to be accepted by healthy jaw bone, a process called osseointegration. It is through this process that the implant receives its firm foundation, exactly like the natural root of a tooth has. While the implant is healing, the patient may wear a denture device that can be removed for cleaning.

The second phase of the implant process is a return to Dr. Heuerman for the placement of an abutment; the portion of the implant that will hold the dental prosthesis. During this procedure, the patient receives local anesthesia and the gum tissue covering the implant is removed. The abutment is placed onto the implant and the gum tissue is then closed around, the abutment but does not cover it.

Within a few weeks, this gum tissue heals around the abutment and the patient may return for the placement of the dental prosthesis.

Dental implants are ideal due to their natural characteristics. To further discuss this option for the restoration of your smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Heuerman.

Back to Dental Implants Home Page