Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a strong, permanent base for fixed replacement teeth. Compared to dentures, bridges, and crowns, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth, or chronic dental problems. Because they fit, feel, and function like natural teeth, dental implants have become the new standard in tooth replacement.
Not many years ago, losing a tooth left you with few options for replacement. While permanent teeth should provide a lifetime of function, it doesn't always end up that way. They may be lost from an accident, decay, or gum disease. Because teeth function together as a set, even one missing tooth is likely to cause your other teeth to shift. As teeth slowly lean and migrate into extra spaces, excessive forces in the wrong places can create escalating problems, including bone loss, tooth wear, and cracks in your teeth.
When it's time to replace missing teeth, whether it's one or a full set, several options might be available to you. Dental implants often give you the best opportunity to enjoy normal chewing and a full smile, although there are other options that deserve consideration.
We know it's not always easy for you to sort through the complicated possibilities. The natural aesthetics and function of one or more missing teeth can be replicated with single crowns or bridges supported by implants. Dr. Kelner's specialized training and experience in restorative dentistry enable her to develop solutions for every scenario.
Meticulously Placed, Durable Implants
Kelner Periodontics relies on medical-grade titanium implants from the most trusted implant manufacturers for long-term biocompatibility and durability. Low-quality or generic implants can carry higher risks of complications, poor integration, or early failure.
We also use advanced, 3D computer-generated surgical guides to plan and place each implant with maximum precision. This cutting-edge technology maps the ideal angle, depth, and position for every implant using a CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography) scan. This approach protects the surrounding bone and nerves while creating the strongest foundation for your new teeth. By combining superior materials with the most advanced placement techniques, Dr. Kelner ensures you receive a dental implant that functions, feels, and lasts like a natural part of your smile.
The Advantages of Seeing a Periodontist and Prosthodontist
Dental implants are most successful when planned and placed by a team that includes a periodontist and a prosthodontist. If you're renovating your home, a general contractor might handle a small job. But for the best results, they bring in specialists like an electrician, plumber, and architect. Dental care works the same way. General dentists are skilled in many areas, but many implant cases require surgical precision and crown design expertise that come from focused training and experience.
A periodontist can expertly place the implant while restoring and treating the surrounding bone and gum for long-term stability. A prosthodontist can design the crown to match your neighboring teeth and function correctly with your bite. Relying on specialists helps ensure your implant is placed properly, looks great, and functions well for many years.
The idea that it’s more convenient or less expensive to have a general dentist handle everything is only true if no specialists are available nearby. In most cases, the total cost is about the same, and so are the number of visits when the process is done correctly.
In fact, you’ll probably spend less time in the chair with a periodontist and prosthodontist who have extensive experience, advanced training, and equipment designed for what they do. When done right the first time, an implant should look natural and perform reliably for decades.