Dental implants

A dental implant is a small post that is placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. For the 3–4 months after implant placement, your bone will grow into the surface of the implant, which is called osseointegration. After the implant is determined to be stable, a small connector (the abutment) is attached above the gums, and your restorative dentist makes the tooth you actually see. At Palm Beach Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, you will review your implant plan in detail with Dr. Chad Curtis before making your final decision.

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Overview

Why many people choose an implant over a bridge

Neighboring teeth stay intact — a bridge usually requires grinding them down
The implant helps keep bone in that spot
You clean it like a regular tooth
Chewing feels more stable than a removable partial
The result can look like a natural tooth

A bridge can still be the better choice in some mouths. We will say so.

Dr. Chad M. Curtis trained at Columbia University, where he focused on bone grafting and rebuilding the jaw with growth factors and stem-cell research for implant sites. His oral and maxillofacial surgery training was at the University of Cincinnati.

Who it is for

Implants are for adults missing one tooth, several teeth, or who want more stability than a loose denture. You will need a dentist to restore the implant, or we can coordinate with one.

A single tooth lost to a crack or a failed root canal
A space that has been empty long enough for the bone to shrink
A denture that rocks when you speak or eat
A treatment plan from another office that you want reviewed

Gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, and a thin ridge can change the plan. Some sites need bone grafting first. If the upper jaw has very little remaining bone, zygomatic, pterygoid, or transnasal implants may be discussed instead of a large graft. Some extractions can receive an implant the same day. That is a judgment call, not a promise.

What to expect

Consultation includes an examination and review of imaging. If you are a good candidate for a dental implant, the surgical plan is closely coordinated with your restorative dentist so that the implant emerges in the correct location in the mouth.

Placement is done in the office, often under IV sedation. A small opening is made, the implant is placed, and a cap is put on the top. This area then heals for 3 to 4 months, after which Dr. Curtis will check the implant for stability. Following clearance by Dr. Curtis, you can get your crown made by your dentist.

Recovery

Most people are less sore than they expect, especially compared with a difficult extraction. Soft foods and gentle cleaning around the site are usually enough. Swelling is more noticeable if several implants or a graft were done together.

Download post-operative instructions (PDF)

What patients have said

Two comments from the practice record, shown with first name and last initial.

“Let's face it, no one wants to undergo oral surgery, but if you find yourself in that situation, these are the people you want by your side.”

— Marcel M.

“By far the most friendly attentive medical facility I have ever experienced.”

— Rick F.

Questions patients ask

Do you offer a free second opinion on implants?

Yes. Bring existing films and the written plan if you have one. Dr. Curtis will tell you whether he would treat it the same way.

How long until I have a finished crown?

Often three to six months for a straightforward site. Grafting and your dentist’s schedule can add time.

What are the parts of a dental implant?

The implant is the titanium root in bone. The abutment is the connector above the gum. Your dentist makes the crown, bridge, or denture.

Are implants better than a bridge?

They solve different problems. A bridge uses neighboring teeth. An implant stands alone but needs bone. Read implants vs bridges.

Who makes the crown?

Usually your restorative dentist. Dr. Curtis places the implant.