Dental Implants

What Are Implants and Mini-Implants?

Implants can provide life changing benefits. With implants you can once again have the confidence to eat, speak, and laugh again. Dental implants provide the foundation for teeth that look and feel like your own teeth. Dental implants preserve critical bone and facial contours, since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will ever know that you have a replacement tooth. Dental implants don’t sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

​

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.

Placing Your Implant(s)

These tiny posts are placed in the bone by a Periodontist. After the implant is placed, generally it takes four months for it to integrate into the bone. The implants are then uncovered by a Specialist and then Dr. Harriman will finish the restoration, and restore your confidence and your smile. ​

​What are Mini-Implants?

Mini dental implants are small implants that can be placed in one day to stabilize dentures. The whole procedure takes a matter of hours, with very little discomfort or recovery time. They are wonderful for those with a denture or other prosthetic that will not stay in place. Six mini-implants are used to serve as anchors. Dr. Harriman will be retrofit your denture with a metal housing for each post so that the denture can snap into place. When the denture is anchored, it cannot slip or move, and makes the denture-wearing experience much easier. The procedure causes little discomfort and requires almost no recovery time, so many patients are able to eat dinner that same day.

What to Expect During Consultation

During your consultation with Dr. Harriman, she will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums and evaluate bone density and quantity. This may involve X-Rays and computer tomography scans (CT scans) to ensure there is sufficient bone structure for placing the implant(s), and to determine exactly where they should be placed.

Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene and personal habits, and commitment to follow aftercare instructions, Dr. Harriman will advise you of the most appropriate treatment plan. Some patients with insufficient bone or gum tissue require bone or soft tissue grafts and/or the use of small diameter implants (also called mini implants).
 

Depending on your situation, Dr. Harriman will advise you of how long the entire treatment process will take, how many appointments will be necessary and what you can expect after each procedure.

Before Your Treatment

Any underlying oral health issues must first be managed before implantation may be considered. Common issues such as tooth decay and gum disease can make treatment less effective.

Smoking can affect osseointegration, the process by which a dental implant anchors to the jaw bone. Once Dr. Harriman deems your mouth healthy enough for treatment, your custom treatment can begin.

​

The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement. If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for dental implants please call us or use our online form to request a consultation.