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DENTAL IMPLANTS

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. If you still have questions after reading this information, have a conversation with your periodontist.  

Before dental implant     After dental implant

Before dental implant             After dental implant

WHAT  PROCEDURES MAY BE COMPLETED BEFORE PLACING MY IMPLANT LIKE?

This procedure is a team effort between you, your dentist and your periodontist. Your periodontist and dentist will consult with you to determine where and how your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.

  • Socket Preservation   A procedure called “socket preservation” is sometimes needed to preserve bone and minimize bone loss adjacent to a tooth that has been removed. One common technique is to fill the socket with bone or bone substitute and allow the bone to heal for approximately four to six months before implant placement.

  • Sinus Augmentation   Tooth loss in the upper back jaw often results in insufficient bone quantity and quality, in part due to the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation helps correct this problem by increasing the bone height of the jaw to provide a good foundation for placement of dental implants.

  • Ridge Modification  “Ridge modification” may be needed if you don’t have enough bone to support an implant. This bone loss could be caused by periodontal disease, wearing dentures, injury, or trauma. During this procedure, bone or bone substitute is added where needed to ensure a proper foundation for implants. Your bone usually requires four to six months of healing  before placing implants.  

  • These procedures can greatly improve appearance and increase long term implant success.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF AN IMPLANT COMPARED TO A BRIDGE OR DENTURE?

CAN I EXPECT AFTER RECEIVING A DENTAL IMPLANT?

As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply!

After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

 

American Academy of Periodontology

  • With two operations, one including a bone graft to replace diminished bone from 30 years of wearing a partial denture I was more than a little nervous. Doug and his team were absolutely fantastic, great to deal with, highly professional and very skilled. I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a team that will leave you feeling like you have made the best choice.
    - S. Cuttriss
  • During the last thirty years I have had a number of dental professionals both here and overseas and can only think of one other who comes even close to the standard of treatment I have had from Doug and his outstanding long term and loyal team. During these past five years I have found Doug to be someone I can trust unconditionally, both as a person and as a professional.

    I have been entirely satisfied with all aspects of my dental care. Doug actually listens to my concerns and perspective, and gives thoughtful consideration and feedback whereas in the past I often felt the communication was, as of course in dental care it usually is, entirely one-sided.

    Doug's demeanour is understated and unassuming, for very good reason. He has a great sense of quiet confidence, I expect due to the knowledge that he provides unrivalled dental care.
    - R Statham - Auckland
  • As a person who dreads going to the dentist I was very nervous about having to see a Periodontist and what it all entailed. However, when I first met Dawn she immediately put me at ease with her warm, friendly personality. Before treatment started she explained everything and ensured that I had all the relevant facts. She ensured that I was comfortable during all stages of treatment, never rushing anything and constantly asking if I was OK. I have now been a patient of Dawn for 7 years and can highly recommend her professional skills as well as her lovely personality.
    - Anonymous
  • WHY I go to Doug Waters: Free easy parking round the back to the warm reception from Jacky and the others who really run the outfit; the waiting room with the day’s Herald newspaper and the book "History and Creation of Gary Larsen’s THE FAR SIDE “ cartoons; the Television set on the roof of the surgery with excellent programmes to “distract” you from what might be happening elsewhere: the email and text reminders that someone is looking forward to seeing me: Engineering is my field and Doug is like an engineer with such special skills: ( I now refuse injections ) Doug and his nurse make the time spent there time not squandered. As one ages we need people like Doug for our “Warrant of Fitness" I totally recommend this practice.
    - Nickki
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