A growing number of people are turning to dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are simply a titanium screw placed into the jawbone to simulate a tooth root so a crown, bridge or denture can be attached. Dental implants produce beautiful results and the procedure involves little pain.

The first step is to have a qualified dentist evaluate the possible implant site to determine if there is adequate bone present to place an implant. This can only be done by periodontal surgeon especially trained in dental implants.

Whoever performs the exam, it is important that they have the correct technology to evaluate the possible implant space in three dimensions. This is usually done with what is called a CBCT x-ray. It is like a CT scan, but one for a dentist, because it can show a 3D model of the jaw with minimal exposure to radiation. CBCT x-rays are often times the most important factor, besides the dentist’s skill and experience, in determining the possible implant options.

If there is not enough bone to support the implant, then a bone graft might be needed. The field of bone grafting has changed dramatically in just a short period of time. Dentists now use bone material to predictably grow bone allowing implants to be placed in areas that would have been considered impossible only a few years ago. Today, bone grafting is quick and painless and should no longer be considered a major setback to dental implants.

Once a site is ready for a dental implant, the procedure is performed in a manner that is as non-invasive as possible. This means that post-operative issues are minimal and most people go back to work and get on with their day just like with other routine dental procedures. Once the dental implant has been placed, the dentist will decide how long to wait before “loading” the implant with a crown or prosthesis. The timeframe can vary depending on the particular needs of the patient. An implant that is loaded is able to support the tooth or teeth in a way that it replicates a tooth root.

The loading of dental implants was traditionally delayed for several months while the bone adapted to the titanium screw, a process was coined “osseointegration” back in the 1950s by the father of modern dental implants, PI Branemark. In the past few years this waiting period has been shortened and even completely ignored in ideal circumstances. With “early-loading” patients don’t have to go many months without teeth or with provisional restorations. While “early-loading” can be successful, the idea of “same-day” implants is a misnomer at best, and in many cases nothing more than deceptive marketing technique used to mislead the unknowing general public.

After the implant is placed and integrated, the dentist will begin the process of making the final restoration. A prospective patient should do some careful research to find a dentist with skill and artistry. Today’s dental crowns, bridges and dentures are more beautiful than ever. In fact, it is not uncommon for someone without any natural teeth to have a smile so amazing that even the most discerning eye could never tell.

If you are considering dental implants, make sure all of your questions are answered in advance. Ask your dental professional to explain the process, review options and take the necessary records. These procedures are not to be feared, but rather thought of as a way to regain that smile you have always dreamed of and deserve

Dr. Fred Bye, Dr. Rebecca Bye, Deena Anderson, CDA, and Heather Imes, CDA, all completed an advanced course in hard and soft tissue regeration for optimal implant esthetics.   The course was given in washington, DC on May 6th, 2010.

Drs. Rebecca and Fred Bye, who are fellows in the ICOI,  recently attended the annual symposium for the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) in New Orleans, LA  on April 24-26th, 20110.  It was a fantastic meeting filled with great speakers, many of whom have come to Hagerstown to speak for the Drs. Bye Implant Study club.  After a great weekend of learning the latest techniques, they are ready to bring that back to implement to provide the best of care to all their patients.   The doctors were recognized for thier accomplishments in the field of implantology.  

When one thinks of oral cancer, the first think that comes to mind is, what is the prognosis?   Looking at the statistics, the prognosis for oral cancer has significantly improved over the past 20 years.    In addition, finding cancer at its earliest stages is really what helps the patient’s long term survival.     Finding the cancer when it is just a small tumor, and has not yet spread allows the surgeon to remove it all, giving the patient a new chance at life.  In addition, reconstructive procedures are now done routinely to restore the jawbone .  After adequate healing, dental impalnts can be placed to completely restore function and esthetics.   So, there really is a silver lining to this cloud.   In our practice over the past 18 years, my partner, Dr. Fred Bye and myself  have been truely fortunate to have found oral cancers in our patients and get them to seek proper treatment in time.   As a result, we have a 100% survival rate for all of our oral cancer patients treated in the past 18 years.   For, that, we are truely grateful.

Finally, a fresh approach to helping patients who need a smile makeover.   Springstone patient fianancing now offers terms to 84 months with ratesas low as 5.99%APR.   Many of our patients can also qualify for no-interst for 12 months  It is a very reputable company and our patients love working with them.

Last evening, we had another successful patient implant seminar.  We were joined by three of our patients, who shared their experiences with dental implants.  Donna Deal and Mrs. Armenti, along with Mrs. Kirkland were our special guests.    Dr. Fred Bye and Dr. Rebecca Bye discussed the importance of dental implants in preserving your jawbone and creating a healthy, functional and beautiful smile.   Join us next time Wednesday May 5th at noon.   The seminar is free!   couple cimplant ad jan10l-lg