Single Tooth Implants
Dental implants are the modern way to replace missing teeth. Implants are titanium screws surgically placed directly into your jawbone, serving as your tooth root. Because implants bond to the jawbone, they function more like natural teeth. Plus, you no longer need to worry about your teeth shifting or slipping out of place while speaking or eating like with removable dentures.
What Is a Dental Implant?
Implants themselves are comprised of three different parts. The first part is the titanium post inserted into the bone by your oral surgeon. We will then attach a new tooth (called a "crown") to this post by using a connector called an "abutment." The result is a new tooth that looks and feels completely natural and allows you to eat whatever you want!
The Dental Implant Procedure
Placement of dental implants is done in our office and is a relatively non-invasive procedure, with most patients reporting very minimal postoperative discomfort. Before implant surgery, we take a 3-D scan of your jaws, called a cone beam CT scan, so we know exactly how much bone you have for implant placement. If you have lost bone and do not have enough bone remaining for implants, we will discuss grafting procedures with you.
Some patients wish to have sedation to sleep through the surgery, and we are happy to discuss that option with you. Once the area is numb, our oral surgeons gently place the implant into the appropriate position. After the procedure, the implant may be entirely beneath the gums for healing. Sometimes, a little metal cap will be visible within the mouth.
After the surgical placement of the implant post, there is a period of time (usually six weeks to four months) for the site to heal properly. During this time, your bone cells grow around and into the titanium post—a process called osseointegration—essentially fusing the implant with your jaws. Once the implant has osseointegrated, it's stable and ready to have the new tooth crown placed onto it.
If the implant is beneath the gums, we will perform a speedy procedure to uncover it; then, it's ready for the crown. Your dentist will take an impression of the implant and send that to the dental lab, which then fabricates your new tooth. Next, we attach the crown to the implant, and your new tooth is complete and ready to be shown off to the world--and even taken out to a steakhouse!
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you are considering having dental implants, please contact us to book a consultation. Dr. Martin or Dr. Appelblatt will perform a thorough exam, take radiographs, and discuss your medical history with you, gathering all the information we need to assess whether you are a candidate for dental implants. If you have significant bone loss and are not currently ready for implant placement, we can discuss procedures such as bone grafting, which will help to improve the area for implant placement.
Do Implants Need Special Care? 
Once your oral surgeon places the implant, it's essentially the same as your natural teeth, except it won't get cavities. Like the rest of your teeth, we recommend practicing routine oral care, such as brushing and flossing, and regularly scheduled cleanings and exams. Your dental implant should last a lifetime with good oral care and hygiene.
Speak with Our Tahoe Oral Surgeons
Do you have missing teeth but don’t want the hassle of dentures? Our oral surgeons can help you determine if dental implants in Tahoe are right for you. Call us today to schedule a consultation!
