Dental Implants

Dental Implants in Brookline, MA

The dental implant process usually requires several visits with multiple dental specialists—but at Coolidge Corner Dental, Dr. Samuel Ustayev, along with Dr. Nive Ramesh, our board-certified periodontist, can perform all aspects of your dental implant treatment in-house. From the initial surgical placement to fitting your custom restoration, we can provide single-tooth implants, implant bridges, and even full-mouth implants from the convenience of our Brookline dental office.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a modern solution for replacing missing teeth, consisting of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone. This post acts as a root for the new tooth, providing a strong and stable foundation.

Over time, the bone grows around the implant through a process called osseointegration, which helps secure it firmly in place. Once this integration is complete, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, restoring the functionality and appearance of natural teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer numerous benefits compared to traditional dentures or bridges:

• Implants prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintain the natural shape of the face, and provide a more comfortable and secure fit.
• Implants do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, preserving the overall dental structure.
• Implants are highly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
• Implants can improve a patient's quality of life by allowing them to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
  
  

Dental Implant Materials

A dental implant is composed of three main parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the prosthetic crown.

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  Implant Post: This is the foundation of the dental implant, typically made of titanium or titanium alloy, which is biocompatible and integrates well with the jawbone. It effectively becomes the root of the new tooth.
• Abutment: Once the implant post has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to it. The abutment is a small connector piece that protrudes above the gum line and serves as a link between the implant post and the restoration. It can be made from various materials, including titanium, gold, or ceramic.
• Implant Restoration: The final part of the dental implant is the restoration, which is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of a patient's natural teeth. The most common materials used for implant restorations include zirconia and various ceramics. Each material has its own advantages and is chosen based on specific patient needs and the location of the implant.
  • Zirconia: Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is used for both implant posts and abutments. It is known for its high strength, biocompatibility, and aesthetic qualities. Zirconia implants are metal-free, making them an excellent choice for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
  • Ceramics: Dental ceramics, such as porcelain or lithium disilicate, are commonly used for the prosthetic crown that attaches to the implant. These materials are chosen for their natural appearance, strength, and ability to mimic the translucency and color of natural teeth.
    
    

Types of Implant Restorations

Single-Tooth Implant

A single-tooth implant is used to replace an individual missing tooth. This type of restoration looks and functions like a natural tooth, providing a strong, permanent solution without affecting adjacent healthy teeth.

Implant Bridge

An implant bridge is used when two or more adjacent teeth are missing. Unlike a traditional bridge that relies on crowns placed on healthy teeth, an implant bridge is supported by dental implants. Typically, two implants are placed on either side of the gap, and a custom-made bridge is attached to them. This provides a stable and durable restoration, preserving the integrity of remaining natural teeth and preventing bone loss in the jaw.

Full-Mouth Dental Implants (All on 4® Treatment)

The All-on-4 treatment is a technique for replacing an entire arch of teeth (either upper or lower) with just four strategically placed dental implants. This method involves placing two implants at the front of the jaw and two at the back at an angle, which maximizes the existing bone structure and provides a stable foundation. A full arch of prosthetic teeth is then attached to these implants, offering a fixed and highly aesthetic solution for patients with significant tooth loss.

Overdentures With Implants

Overdentures with implants are removable dentures that are secured to the jaw using dental implants. Typically, two to four implants are placed in the jawbone, and the overdenture is designed to snap onto these implants. This type of restoration provides greater stability and retention compared to traditional dentures, reducing slippage and improving comfort and functionality.

The Ideal Implant Candidate

While a thorough evaluation by Dr. Ustayev, along with our board-certified periodontist Dr. Ramesh, is essential to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for dental implants, the ideal patient will have:

• Good General Health: Candidates should be in overall good health to undergo the surgical procedure required for dental implants. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, might complicate the healing process and require special consideration.
• Sufficient Jawbone Density: Adequate jawbone density is crucial for the success of dental implants, as the implant posts need a solid foundation for osseointegration. Patients with significant bone loss may need bone grafting procedures before implants can be placed.
• Healthy Gums: Healthy gums are essential because periodontal disease can affect the stability and success of the implant. Candidates should have good oral hygiene and be free of active gum disease.
• Non-Smokers: Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking during the implant process are better candidates for successful implant integration.
• Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Candidates should be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the long-term success of their implants. Proper care and maintenance are vital to prevent infections and other complications.
      

Dental Implant Treatment Guide

The dental implant process is a multi-step journey that involves careful planning, precise surgical procedures, and thorough follow-up care. Dr. Ustayev and Dr. Ramesh’s methodical approach will ensure your implant integrates successfully with the jawbone, providing a strong and durable foundation for your restoration.

1. Initial Consultation and Examination

• Assessment: Dr. Ustayev, along with our board-certified periodontist Dr. Nive Ramesh, will evaluate your oral health, medical history, and suitability for dental implants. This includes a thorough examination, X-rays, and possibly a CT scan to assess bone density and structure.
• Treatment Planning: A personalized treatment plan is created, outlining the steps involved, the type of implant, and the timeline for the procedure.

2. Preparatory Procedures (if needed)

• Tooth Extraction: If the damaged or decayed tooth is still present, it will be extracted. Sometimes, the implant can be placed immediately after extraction.
• Bone Grafting: A bone graft for dental implants is a surgical procedure used to augment or build up the jawbone to provide a solid foundation for dental implants. This procedure is necessary if you lack sufficient natural bone due to factors such as tooth loss, gum disease, trauma, or congenital conditions.

3. Implant Placement Surgery

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
• Implant Placement: Dr. Ustayev will make an incision in the gum to expose the jawbone, drill a small hole, and insert the titanium implant post into the bone. The gum is then stitched back over the implant.
• Healing Period: The implant is left to integrate with the jawbone (osseointegration), which typically takes three to six months. During this time, the bone grows around the implant, securing it in place.

4. Abutment Placement

• Minor Surgery: Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgical procedure is performed to attach an abutment to the implant post. This requires reopening the gum to expose the implant.
• Healing Period: The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the abutment, which usually takes a few weeks.

5. Prosthetic Attachment

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  Impressions: After the gum has healed, Dr. Ustayev will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture.
• Prosthetic Creation: The impressions are sent to a dental lab, where the prosthetic tooth or teeth are crafted to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size.
• Final Attachment: The custom-made prosthetic is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration. Dr. Ustayev will ensure a proper fit, adjust the bite if necessary, and provide instructions for care.
  

Dental Implant Care

Caring for your new dental implant involves maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits to ensure the longevity and health of your implant.

Daily Oral Hygiene

• Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure to clean all surfaces of the implant restoration and your natural teeth.
• Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between the teeth and around the implant. Special floss or interdental brushes designed for implants can be helpful.
• Mouth Rinse: Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help reduce bacteria and maintain gum health.

Regular Dental Visits

• Professional Cleanings: Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups, typically every six months, or more frequently if recommended by Dr. Ustayev. Professional cleanings at Coolidge Corner Dental help remove plaque and tartar that you might miss during daily brushing and flossing.
• Examinations: During checkups, Dr. Ustayev will examine your implants, gums, and overall oral health to ensure everything is in good condition and address any potential issues early.

Avoid Damaging Habits

• Chewing Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candies, or pens, which can damage the implant restoration and natural teeth.
• Teeth Grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth, discuss it with Dr. Ustayev. He may recommend a night guard to protect your implants and natural teeth from damage.

Schedule Your Consultation Now

Coolidge Corner Dental offers a variety of implant solutions to replace missing teeth. Schedule a consultation today to find out the best option for you! Call our Brookline, MA dental office today at (617) 277-1112 to book an appointment or schedule an implant consultation online.