Dental health significantly impacts our overall well-being, and for those with missing teeth, dental implants offer a revolutionary solution. Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery, located in Columbia and Lawrenceburg, TN, provides expert dental implant services. Led by board-certified professionals Dr. Bill Hunter and Dr. Les Hunter, the practice ensures patients receive high-quality care tailored to their specific needs. This article delves into the types of dental implants available and the comprehensive services offered at Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery.
Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a long-term solution that mimics natural teeth in both function and appearance. They help maintain jawbone structure, prevent bone loss, and improve oral health by eliminating the need for adjacent teeth alteration.
Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery offers a variety of dental implant types, each catering to different patient needs:
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. These implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post. Endosteal implants are typically made of titanium and are shaped like small screws.
Subperiosteal implants are used for patients who lack sufficient healthy jawbone and cannot undergo a bone augmentation procedure. These implants are placed under the gum but above the jawbone. A metal frame with posts is positioned under the gum, and as the gum heals, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts protruding through the gums.
For patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw, zygomatic implants are a viable option. These longer implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygomatic bone) rather than the upper jaw. This method avoids the need for bone grafting and provides a stable foundation for dental restorations.
The All-on-4 implant technique is designed for patients who need a full arch of teeth. This method uses four strategically placed implants to support a full denture. It is a cost-effective solution that provides a stable and secure alternative to traditional dentures. The All-on-4 system allows for immediate function, meaning patients can leave the office with a full set of teeth on the same day.
Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery offers a full range of services to ensure that patients receive the best possible care throughout their dental implant journey.
The process begins with a thorough consultation, including a detailed oral examination, medical history review, and advanced imaging techniques such as 3D CT scans. This comprehensive assessment allows Drs. Bill and Les Hunter to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
For patients with insufficient jawbone density, bone grafting and sinus lift procedures are available. These techniques help build up the bone structure, providing a solid foundation for the implants. Bone grafting involves using bone from another part of the body or a synthetic material to augment the jawbone. A sinus lift raises the sinus floor and develops bone for the placement of dental implants in the upper jaw.
Once the treatment plan is in place, the implant placement procedure is performed. The board-certified surgeons at Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery ensure the process is as comfortable and efficient as possible, utilizing IV sedation or general anesthesia when needed to alleviate patient anxiety and discomfort.
After the implants are placed, a healing period is required to allow the implants to integrate with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, typically takes a few months. Once healed, the final restoration, whether a crown, bridge, or denture, is attached to the implants, completing the process and restoring the patient’s smile.
Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery prides itself on using the latest technology and techniques in implant dentistry. From advanced imaging and precise surgical guides to high-quality implant materials, the practice ensures optimal outcomes for their patients.
The commitment to patient care is evident in the personalized approach taken by Drs. Bill and Les Hunter. They work closely with each patient, providing education and support throughout the treatment process to ensure a positive and successful experience.
Dental implants are a transformative solution for missing teeth, offering durability, functionality, and a natural appearance. At Hunter Oral and Implant Surgery in Columbia and Lawrenceburg, TN, patients receive expert care from board-certified professionals dedicated to restoring smiles and enhancing oral health. With a range of implant types and comprehensive services, the practice ensures that each patient’s unique needs are met with precision and compassion.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our contact page or contact their offices directly.
