Dental Implants and Bone Grafting
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are titanium “posts” that are carefully placed in the jawbone or extraction socket to replace the tooth root. The implant is allowed to “osteo-integrate,” or bond directly to the jawbone, which is what allows the implant to “take.” A new tooth is then placed upon the implant.
Dr. Satko is specially trained in the placement of dental implants and in grafting bone into the upper and lower jaws. Dr. Satko and your dentist will discuss with you whether you are a good candidate for implants or whether traditional crowns, bridges, dentures, and root canal procedures are your best options.
About dental implant and bone graft procedures
Dr. Satko works closely with your dentist, who will place the crown on your implant at the end of treatment. She will discuss with your dentist the type of implant and the best treatment plan for you. If possible, Dr. Satko will place the implant in the extraction socket from which the tooth originally came.
Typically, Dr. Satko will place a bone graft at the time of your dental extraction to maintain a properly open space where the new bone can grow. The implant usually can be placed 8 to 12 weeks after the bone graft has healed. In some cases, the healing process will take longer. Proper healing allows for optimal positioning and placement of the implant and subsequent crown.
Working with Satko Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center
Healing can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months, and during this time you may wear a removable tooth to replace the empty space between your teeth. The procedure can be performed under local anesthetic or with intravenous (IV) conscious sedation. As it is a delicate procedure, Dr. Satko spends a great deal of time and care, lining up the implants in the best position for your new teeth.
Dr. Satko will provide you with a treatment plan that will describe what you can expect from the surgery as well as long-term risks, benefits, care options, and complications so you can make an informed decision regarding implant treatment.
Her office will provide you with a cost estimate before treatment begins. Dr. Satko is committed to devising an implant option to fit your budget and will provide pretreatment cost estimates. Her office also offers interest-free financing, accepts all major credit cards, HSA’s, and will bill your insurance accordingly.
Why dental implants?
Dental implants do not decay like teeth do. They are the standard of care for both replacement of missing teeth and for support of dentures. Rather than cutting down adjacent teeth and then creating a bridge between them, a new tooth is placed. Implant-supported dentures can eliminate the poor fit and movement associated with dentures. Implant treatment is the best option for support and preservation of the jawbone.
Instead of going through life with the embarrassment of missing teeth, talk to Dr. Satko and your dentist about how dental implants can benefit your smile.