DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants are small, threaded posts that surgically replace missing teeth.  Implants are a secure, lasting solution for missing teeth—made to look, feel and function like your own natural teeth. Oral Surgery Durango combines advanced technology with individual care to deliver your oral care solution.

Each implant includes three parts:

• A titanium or ceramic implant that is surgically placed in your jaw
• An abutment (connector), sometimes custom made for you
• A custom crown that perfectly blends with your smile

Implants support individual cemented crowns, bridges or dentures. 

In addition to filling in gaps in your smile, dental implants improve chewing function and overall oral health. Once healed, implants work much like natural teeth.

If you’re a candidate for dental implants—whether it’s a single-tooth replacement or full-arch solution—we’ll help you find the option that works for you. 

After Dr. Reid has met and evaluated you and your needs for a dental implant, he will create a treatment plan specific for you. Working hand in hand with your general dentist from beginning to finish to provide the best possible aesthetic and functional outcome. 

Consult - We will discuss your bone quality and bone levels by taking a CBCT here in office, and explain the surgery. If your jawbone is not strong enough to support the dental implant, grafts may be needed.

If needed, grafting is done in two steps:

• Synthetic or allograft material is grafted to the area that the dental implant will be placed.
• After the graft heals(3-6 months), the implant can be placed. Dr. Reid will discuss this process with you in depth.

Surgery - Dr. Reid will place the dental implant. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic or under sedation, depending on your specific needs and takes about one hour. 

(It is easier than having a tooth prepared for a crown or restoration!)

Healing - It usually takes four to six months for the implant to osseointegrate, or fuse, to the bone. 

Restoration - Once the implant is stable and the bone has grown densely around the implant’s titanium post we will clear you to begin the restorative process with your general dentist to install the abutment and crown.