Dental Implants
Connecticut Valley Oral Surgery Associates serving Greenfield, Amherst, Northampton & Keene
Dental Implants Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
What are dental implants?
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts.
Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw.
The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown.
To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.
Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.
A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases, a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed.
If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.
“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”
For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.
More Dental Implant Information
- Replacing Missing Teeth
- Overview of Implant Placement
- Missing All Upper or Lower Teeth
- Bone Grafting for Implants
- Implant Supported Overdenture
- Teeth-in-a-Day
- After Implant Placement
- Cost of Dental Implants
Surgical Advances in Dental Implants
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Albanese, Dr. Edmunds, Dr. Blount, Dr. Theberge and Dr. Spink are able to place single-stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed.
There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Drs. Albanese, Edmunds, Blount, Theberge or Spink performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.
The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Want To Know More About How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Life?
Our caring & dedicated staff want to help you get the perfect smile. Call us today!
Connecticut Valley Oral Surgery Associates
Patient Testimonial By Paul D
Connecticut Valley Oral Surgery Associates are truly Outstanding! Dr. Edmunds and his highly skilled team did a Superb Job of installing my 3 implants in a most friendly, courteous and professional manner. Dr. Edmunds carefully explained the process from start to finish and thoughtfully monitored my well being throughout the procedure. I was amazed by how seamlessly they all worked together in such an expert manner providing this highly satisfied patient and Marine Corp Veteran with the very best in world class dental care! A special note of Thanks is given to Ms. Laura, Ms. Norma and Ms. Maria. These Ladies are highly motivated professionals and the very best in their field!
- Paul D
Patient Testimonial By Carol G
Thank you to Dr. Theberge and his staff for a wonderful experience. Everyone was so nice and ready to answer my questions. I was nervous before the procedure but as soon as Dr. Theberge explained things to me I relaxed and actually enjoyed going to appointments. They make a great team. I would refer anyone who needed oral surgery to them without hesitation. They were just the best dental practice I have ever experienced, and I’ve been to a lot . I’m 77 years old and have lived all over the country .
- Carol G
Patient Testimonial By Cindy C
I had 3 visits starting with a broken tooth extraction and then dental implants. All 3 visits were painless and quick! Dr. Theberge and his staff were great. They explained exactly what was happening, were gentle, comforting and the procedures were painless. I would definitely recommend Dr. Theberge and staff.
- Cindy C
Patient Testimonial By mike w
The whole staff at both the Greenfield and Keene locations were very professional and listened very carefully to my concerns. Dr. Theberge took the time to make me feel at ease when my sudden drop in blood pressure after a procedure kicked in. He took the time to explain what happens and why and said it is common and made me feel comfortable and safe. His guidance and support has helped me in other doctor visits and am very grateful for his advice and support. Not once did Dr. Theberge or his staff make me feel embarrassed or ashamed. They educated me. My implant has been uneventful and a procedure that I dreaded went so smoothly I would recommend him and his staff to anyone that needs the procedure. Thank you!
- mike w
Patient Testimonial By Patrick M
Had a dental implant placed, and over the course of 3 stages needed for placement, never had a bad experience. Had to visit 3 different offices as that was what my schedule allowed, staff was excellent at all locations and felt comfortable and confident in everyone's ability.
- Patrick M