Dental Implants

Dr. Suway has trained extensively in the field of dental implants. He was trained at Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1989 and continues his education yearly through the Academy of Periodontology and the Academy of Osseointegration. 

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium cylinder that is placed in the jaw bone by a periodontist.  The implant functions as a new tooth root which your dentist can use to attach a crown.  Dental implants are frequently an ideal option because they do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. They look and feel like your own teeth and they can prevent further bone loss and gum recession. The success rate of dental implants is excellent and they are considered a highly predictable option for tooth replacement. Under proper conditions, such as placement by a periodontist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, and are therefore the ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists have experience working with other dental professionals, they also have the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own.

Evaluation

Dr. Suway will examine your mouth and recommend radiographs or other diagnostic tests necessary for the proper and predictable placement of dental implants.  He will work closely with your referring dentist to formulate the best treatment plan for each individual case.

There are no absolute conditions preventing a patient from having implant treatment, however, there are many factors to consider.  Medical and dental health, bone quality, tobacco use, and the patient's ability to care for implants may affect the success of treatment and will be discussed during your implant consultation. The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health and has adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant.  Additionally, the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.

Treatment

Placement of dental implants is accomplished by the surgical opening of the gum tissue to allow access to the jaw bone.  A small channel is prepared in the bone with a special drill which protects the health of the bone.  The implant then is inserted in the bone and the gum tissue is closed with a suture. Care must be taken not to chew on the surgical site during the healing phase.

Caring For Dental Implants

Dental implants need the same daily home care and proper professional cleanings as do natural teeth.  While implants will never decay, they can experience bone deterioration when not maintained properly.