Dental Implants

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Dental implants are a long term and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. Because your other teeth are unaffected by implants, dental implants are often a better solution than other alternatives like bridges or dentures. Implants can also be used to hold and support dentures if that is the situation you find yourself in.

Our dentist, Dr. Poulson, works with an oral surgeon or periodontist who places the implant. Dr. Poulson will restore the implant once the implant is placed with a crown or by attaching it to a denture.

Speak with our Dr. Poulson, in Brighton, CO about the process of dental implants.

1. The entire process may be performed over the course of a few months. The first step usually includes the placement of the implant or "root" part within the gums. The implant is placed by making a small incision in the gum. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implant(s) are placed, the gums are allowed to heal and in some cases are sutured for a small period.
2. You will be allowed between 3-6 months to heal after the implant is inserted. Occasionally, temporary tooth/teeth are installed so that you can eat and speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile. As you heal over the next 3-6 months, your jaw bone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration.
3. After the implant has healed, it is time to place an abutment on the implant. The abutment serves as a base for your new tooth. Once this is placed, an impression of the abutment is taken and is used to create your permanent restoration. Once the restoration is completed, usually a few weeks later, you can return to Dr. Poulson to attach the restoration permanently and restore the implant. It may take a short time getting used to your new teeth, but your new smile will shine.

Questions & Answers

What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a permanent new root for a missing tooth or teeth. A titanium cylinder is placed into the jawbone. After the implant heals into the bone, an abutment and crown are then placed on the implant to provide a permanent new tooth/teeth. Implants can also be used to fix and support dentures.

How are dental implants different from dentures or bridges?
Dentures are a removable set of teeth or partial set of teeth that are removed from time to time and cared for in a special manner. Dentures are often bulky and take more time to get used to.

Bridges are made up of two or more crowns placed between two natural teeth. The two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth. The false teeth are called pontics and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. The anchoring teeth may be natural teeth or implants.

Dental implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth that can be cared for just like natural teeth.

What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants look and feel just like real teeth. They are a permanent addition to your smile. The implant procedure is affordable and very successful.

Who can place a dental implant?
An oral surgeon, periodontist or dentist trained in placing implants needs to perform the implant procedures. After the implant is in place, Dr. Poulson will finish the process by restoring the implant.

How much do implants cost?
The price of your dental implants will vary based on individual needs, how many implants you are having placed, amount of insurance coverage, and more. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Poulson to determine a price for your implants and a financing plan if necessary.

Do dental implants hurt?
Often patients report the implant placement and restoration as one of the most pain-free procedures they do.  The initial placement of the implant is usually done with just a local anesthetic so that you do not feel any tooth or jaw pain. If you have anxiety or fear, you should discuss sedation options with Dr. Poulson or the specialist placing the implant.  

How long do implants last?
When cared for properly, implants should last a lifetime. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to the success of your implant.