Kona Periodontics and Implants Big Island Periodontics & Implants
Kailua Kona, Hawaii (808) 329-7246 Honoka'a, Hawaii : (808) 775-7294
Dental Implants
Are you one of the many people on the Big Island with missing teeth?
A dental implant is an amazing device that is used to replace single or multiple missing teeth with real results. They can even be used to replace all of your teeth and are excellent options to replace uncomfortable, loose fitting, and poorly functioning dentures. You will be able to smile and chew your favorite foods comfortably again.
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. The root is under the gums and encased in bone, you cannot see this part. The crown is above the gums and is what you can see in your mouth - it is the part used to chew the food. Your dental implant will consist of the same basic parts.
The implant is made of medical grade titanium - the same material orthopedic surgeons use to replace knees, hips and shoulders. This material has decades of research behind it to show compatibility with your body while restoring function of a damaged part. What a blessing! A very big Thank You to the scientists who have dedicated their lives to biological systems and biomaterials.
Dental implant treatment is a team effort between you, Dr. Oakley, and your general dentist. To replace your tooth Dr. Oakley first replaces the root with a dental implant. Time (3-6 months) is allowed for your body to grow bone around and onto the dental implant. This creates a strong foundation which can withstand the forces of chewing. After this your dentist will create a supporting pier (abutment) and a tooth (crown) which are attached to the dental implant. Voila! The process is complete, the tooth is replaced and ready for function.
Dental implants are the most successful replacement device that we have in dentistry and healthcare. They have long term success rates in the 96-99% range. To maximize the benefit of dental implants it is extremely important to take care of them by practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your periodontist regularly.
Dr. Oakley has received extensive training in Dental Implantology and stays up to date with the most current information through continuing education every year.
If the majority or all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options, explained below, are available to support replacement teeth.
Full Mouth Options
If the majority or all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support replacement teeth. Dr. Oakley will determine if you are a candidate for the option of your choice. These options depend on the amount and shape of available jaw bone.
Dental implants with teeth attached that do not come out. In this scenario each of your missing teeth is replaced by a single dental implant. This is usually accomplished with 8-10 implants and a combination of crowns and bridges attached to the implants. This option will most closely resemble the appearance of your natural teeth.
Dental implants with a denture which is screwed onto the implants and does not come out. Also known as the "all on x" treatment.
Dental implants with a denture which is snapped onto the implants and can be removed for easy cleaning and maintenance. Also known as implant retained overdentures.
Conventional dentures that come in and out of your mouth and commonly require use of a denture glue to stay in place.
The video below will go over options 2 and 3.
Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
If there is not enough bone to allow for placement of a dental implant, bone grafting can optimize your jaw to allow for placement of a dental implant and optimal, long-term results with your replacement tooth.
Watch the video below for further information.
Sinus Bone Grafting
When the back teeth on the top jaw are lost, the maxillary sinus can enlarge at the expense of your jaw bone. Sinus grafting can optimize your top jaw to allow for placement of a dental implant and optimal, long-term results with your replacement tooth.
There are two types of sinus grafting and the decision of which approach to use depends on the amount of remaining jaw bone.
If sufficient bone height is available - the vertical approach can be used and implant placed the same day. This is shown in the top portion of the picture to the right.
If minimal bone height - the lateral approach is used as shown in the video below.
After Dental Implant Surgery
What will I use for teeth while the implants are healing and my natural tooth is missing?
There are many options for temporary teeth, yours will be discussed with you, and decided upon depending on your individual needs. Whether you are missing one tooth or all of your teeth, there is a solution. A plan will be in place prior to treatment and you will be able to smile through the entire experience.
What are the potential concerns after the implant surgery?
Pain is a concerning feature of any surgical procedure, most patients do not experience significant or severe pain following dental implant surgery. You will be provided appropriate pain medications and antibiotics to make your recovery as pleasant as possible. Occasionally, some people develop infections that require additional antibiotic coverage. You can read about all risks and benefits here.
How long do implants last?
Dental Implants last a long time if they are well maintained. This means your cooperation and discipline will affect the lifespan of your dental implants. Optimal dental hygiene and regular dental visits will give you the best chance to keep your implants (as well as your natural teeth!) for 20+ years. Long term studies (20+ years follow up) tell us that patients missing all of their teeth have an 80-90% success rate. Patients missing one or some teeth have a 95% success rate.
However, if one of your dental implants doesn't heal properly or loosens after a period of time, you may need to have it removed. After a healing period, a new implant can usually be placed.
When do my new replacement teeth get attached to the dental implant?
After adequate healing of the jaw bone has occurred and bone has grown onto the implant surface. In most cases a healing period of 3 months is necessary. We will review the most appropriate treatment sequence and timing for your situation.
The dental work to complete your treatment is complex. Your general dentist will take an impression or a digital scan of the implant, then work with a dental laboratory (in most cases) to create teeth that match your smile.
The time and number of appointments needed to complete this work varies with your particular situation. No two treatments are exactly the same and all require precision and attention to detail. In general, treatments take between 3 and 9 months to be completed. You will receive an individualized estimate of treatment timing when you see Dr. Oakley for an evaluation.
How do I clean and maintain my new teeth?
As with natural teeth, it is important to clean the implant-supported teeth with proper toothbrushing, flossing, mouthrinsing, and the use of other recommended aids. You should also visit your dentist several times a year for hygiene and professional maintenance.
Your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear just like dentures, crowns and bridges. This means components will eventually require repair, including ceramic fracture, screw tightening, denture relines, and other adjustments.
How many doctors are involved in my care?
Dr. Oakley places the implants and performs other necessary surgical procedures - your general dentist provides the temporary teeth and the final replacement teeth. Both doctors are involved in planning your care. In some complex cases, other dental specialists may be brought in to deliver optimal care.
How much does it cost?
You will receive an estimate of the treatment costs after your consultation and planning visit with Dr. Oakley.
To determine your treatment plan, in many cases there is an initial charge. This includes all xrays, dental replicas, oral examinations, diagnostic work ups, and surgical templates that are necessary to give you the best possible outcome.
We try to assist you in estimating your actual payments after evaluating insurance coverage and third party payments. Also, you should consider your personal investment in each treatment option as some insurance companies provide little to no coverage. If the specific treatment outlined is not clear, please contact us.
Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental implant?
A titanium post which is used to replace your tooth. Tooth replacement consists of three parts:
Dental implant
Abutment
Prosthetic crown
What are my options to replace a missing tooth or teeth?
Best option: Dental Implants
Good option: Dental Bridge
Acceptable option: Partial or Full Denture
Poor option: Do Nothing.
Why should I choose a dental implant over other options?
Dental implants are the most comfortable and long-lasting solution. They form a stable foundation for replacement teeth and maintain the form and function of the face and jaws. A dental bridge sacrifices the structure of surrounding teeth to allow for a prosthetic to "fill" the missing tooth gap. In general, implants last longer than dental bridges. Removable dentures or "partials" can be inconvenient to remove at night, uncomfortable, and loose. They may slip out while in public which can be rather upsetting.
A full set of teeth makes eating pleasurable again, allowing you to eat a proper diet and the foods you enjoy. It also preserves your facial structure and prevents you from looking old before your time.
What will it cost?
All patients are different and have individualized needs. Dr. Oakley must complete a thorough exam and establish a treatment plan prior to providing you a cost estimate. There are several steps involved in dental implant treatment, when comparing quotes it is important to factor in each of these steps:
Exams, Necessary X-rays, Dental Models, Fabrication of proper planning mock ups and surgical guides. The information gathered in this step is crucial to deliver the best result possible.
Extraction of tooth or tooth roots.
Bone and/or gum grafting when applicable.
Placement of the dental implant (the new tooth root).
Placement of the abutment and crown (the new tooth which you can chew and smile with).
Post operative care and maintenance.
Will my insurance cover the cost of care?
Dental insurance companies often cover a portion of the recommended treatment. Please bring your Medical and Dental Insurance information with you to your initial visit. Upon request, we will submit a claim to your insurance provider to pre-determine your benefits. Financing programs are also available - often with no interest or low interest.
Will I need surgery?
If treated early gum disease can be treated without surgery. We will make a treatment plan specific to your needs. Our practice philosophy is to treat as conservatively as possible to achieve our treatment goals.
What if I decide not to proceed with recommended treatments?
Periodontal disease is a progressing infection of the gums and bone that supports the teeth. It is painless. Delay in treatment will cause further destruction of the foundation of your teeth, jaw bone loss, and eventual loss of your teeth. If you lose your teeth, dentures are never as effective as your natural teeth.
Why should I replace my teeth?
Diseased and missing teeth can affect your whole body. When your mouth is healthy you are healthier too. A missing tooth or teeth can affect your bite, speech, appearance and limit the foods you can eat. You may also experience jaw pain and/or headaches due to changes in your bite and chewing patterns.
What happens to my jaw and appearance when my tooth is lost?
When you lose teeth your appearance and health deteriorate as the jawbone melts away. Generally you will lose 25% of the supporting jaw structure within the first year of tooth loss. Dental implants are more easily placed soon after teeth are extracted because bone replacement becomes more complex the longer you wait. The solution? - Dental implants act like natural teeth. They safeguard and preserve your bone structure, oral health, and appearance.
What can I expect with dental implant surgery?
The procedure generally takes between 60-90 minutes depending on the amount of implants being placed and if bone or soft tissue replacement grafts are necessary. You may receive medications to make the procedure less stressful if going to the dentist causes you to feel uneasy. Local anesthetics are used to make you comfortable. Following the surgery, discomfort is mild and lasts about 2-3 days. Dr. Oakley will go over specific details related to your dental implant surgery in person. In many cases the implant can be placed the same day as tooth extraction.
Healing phase - 3 months will pass to allow for bone to grow onto the implant and solidify the foundation for the tooth. After this has occurred you will see Dr. Oakley for a verification of proper healing then you will be referred to your general dentist for the next step.
Prosthetic phase - your general dentist will make an abutment and crown which attach to the dental implant. Your tooth is now replaced and you have a full set of teeth again - enjoy!
Maintenance phase - Now that you have your replacement tooth it is important to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly to prevent complications and allow your implant to last for the long term.