Dental Implants

A missing tooth, a few missing teeth, and poorly fitting dentures – all of these conditions make a person feel self-conscious and frustrated. Health may also suffer as the ability to chew foods decreases. Dr. Lane can give you back your smile and good dental health with dental implants. Each implant consists of a small, biocompatible post anchored in the jaw. These posts can hold single teeth, or four to six will secure a full denture. Implants present many benefits over other dental prosthetics, as well.

Learn more about dental implants and find out if you’re a qualified candidate for this innovative treatment. Call Lane Family Dental today at 907-373-2200 and schedule a consultation.

Single Tooth Implants

In the past, a single missing tooth could only be replaced with a traditional dental bridge or a removable partial denture. Both of these options are effective for filling in a gap in the smile. However, when it comes to function and health, they fall short. For example, to place a traditional bridge, the natural teeth on either side of the space must be reduced – or filed down. This compromises the integrity of healthy tooth structure, making you more susceptible to decay or other issues in the future.

In contrast, a dental implant does not require the reduction of healthy teeth. One dental implant and crown can effectively replace a missing tooth and restore your bite to full function and health.

Implant Dentures

Traditional dentures tend to shift, slip, or wobble when eating or speaking. This can cause a great deal of embarrassment or discomfort. Dental implants can dramatically improve the quality of life for denture-wearers. For example, once the implants have been surgically placed in the jaw, a custom-made denture can “snap on” or attach directly to the posts. This provides unparalleled support and stability. Moreover, because dental implants preserve existing bone and prevent further bone loss, patients can enjoy optimal oral health as well.

The Implant Procedure

Typically, dental implant surgery can be completed in about one hour at our office. The general steps of this procedure include:

• Anesthesia: To numb the gums and keep you comfortable, local anesthesia will be administered. If desired, you can choose a sedation option as well.
• Accessing the jawbone: Lane will create a small incision in the gums to access the underlying jawbone.
• Preparing the site: Using specialized dental tools, Dr. Lane will create a pilot hole in the jawbone and prepare the site for the new implant.
• Placing the implant: Once the site is ready, the implant will be carefully threaded into place.
• Placing the healing cap: To keep bacteria and debris from affecting the internal surfaces of the implant, a small healing cap will be placed. This will also help shape the gum line during the healing period.
• Stitches: Finally, the incision is closed with surgical sutures. In most cases, these will fall out on their own in a few days.

Once the surgical process is complete, a few months of healing are typically required before the final restoration can be placed. During this time, the new implant post will integrate with your natural bone tissue. This process, called osseointegration, is essential for the long-term success of your implant. Once full healing has been achieved, the healing cap will be removed, a small connector post (abutment) will be placed, and your final restoration will be attached. Once this is finished, you will be able to use your new implant just like a natural tooth!

Schedule a Consultation

Dental implants provide a long-term option for replacing lost teeth or securely anchoring a denture. Dr. Lane offers implant consultations to answer patients’ questions and explain the procedure in more detail. Call us now in Wasilla, AK at 907-373-2200 to make your potentially life-changing appointment.