Dental Implants

Dental Implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. Think of dental implants as replacements for missing tooth roots upon which new teeth can be made. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. They can also be used as anchors to eliminate loose fitting dentures and partials.

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Tuccillo or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon suggested by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dr. Tuccillo will recommend an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist to place the implant fixture. This actual implant placement is painless and is done with a simple local anesthetic (novocaine), just as would be done with any routine dental procedure. A single tooth implant is typically placed in less than 45 minutes. Most patients experience very minor (if any) discomfort and are able to return to work that same day. The implant is left undisturbed under the gums during which time the implant and bone bond together (osteointegration).

After a period of 3 -6 months, the top portion of the implant is exposed by the same Oral Surgeon or Periodontist, and a small healing collar is placed to shape and form the gum tissue. Several weeks after this, Dr. Tuccillo can begin making your new teeth. Dr. Tuccillo will begin by taking a special impression which captures the exact position of the implant in your mouth. Dr. Tuccillo’s lab will then fabricate your new teeth which Dr. Tuccillo will attach to the implants in your mouth. These implant-supported teeth will look and feel like your own teeth. Implants have well over a 98% long-term success rate, so if properly maintained through regular check-up visits, they can last a lifetime.