David R. Scharf D.M.D.

Periodontics & Dental Implants

Long Island NY

631-661-6633

Procedures

• Introduction
• Perio To Improve Your Smile
• Dental Implants
• Crown Lengthening
• Ridge Enhancement
• Soft Tissue Reconstruction
• Hard Tissue Reconstruction
• Non-Surgical Treatment Methods
• Perioscopy
• Lasers

Dental Implants

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts, which are placed into the bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life. Dental implant use has been exploding in recent years and for good reason. They are among the most predictable and long lasting methods to replace missing teeth.   Read our section on tooth replacement options  to see the statistics of implant success compared to other methods of tooth replacement.  Dental implants allow for a missing tooth to be replaced without having to grind down the adjacent teeth. Most They act to stimulate the bone where a tooth has been lost and prevent bone resorption in these areas.

Dr. Scharf has received extensive training in implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1988 and through continuing education, is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry. As recognition of his expertise in the area of dental implants, Dr. Scharf is a faculty member in the Department of Implant Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry. As Clinical Assistant Professor, he trains dental specialists in placing and restoring dental implants.

There are 4 phases to implant treatment, plus maintenance:

1. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
2. Implant Placement
3. Implant Uncovering
4. Prosthetics (a.k.a. Making the Teeth)
5. Maintenance

Phase 1: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Many patients are concerned because they want dental implants, but do not know if they are a good candidate.   Dr. Scharf  is an expert in this area and has the training and experience to make this determination for you.    This evaluation includes a thorough dental examination and 3 dimensional radiographic examination called a dentascan followed up with computer analysis using Simplant software.  We have an i-CAT scanner in the office to facilitate this process and eliminate the time and hassle of having a CT scan taken at a radiologist’s office.  Dr. Scharf will work closely with your dentist to plan the implant restoration.  Although he limits his practice to dental implants and periodontics, Dr. Scharf has advanced training and many years experience as a restorative dentist.  This training and experience helps him understand the restorative aspects of your treatment to a much greater degree than someone who has not had this experience.

Long Island Periodontist uses Simplant to plan dental implants on Long Island

Following the Diagnostic Phase

Following the diagnostic phase Dr. Scharf  will then present his findings to you during a treatment conference. Your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by your doctor. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success. We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.

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Phase 2: Implant Placement

The implants are titanium replacement for the roots of the teeth that were lost. The implant only replaces the root of the missing tooth.   A prosthesis or tooth replacement is attached to the implant later on.  The gum and bone is made numb with a local anesthetic.   Sedation is available for people who wish to be sedated.  The implant is gently inserted into the bone where it will undergo a process called osseointegration. This means that the bone grows onto the surface of the implant. This takes between 6-12 weeks in most instances depending on the condition of the bone.  Sometimes the implants are submerged under the gum during this healing phase. Sometimes they are left exposed flush with the gum. If they are submerged, then a second procedure will be needed to expose the implant after it has integrated with the bone. If the implant was not submerged, the prosthetic phase can begin once osseointegration is complete. Many times a single tooth can be replaced with 3 visits and only 8 weeks of time.

1. Bone is exposed through small incision.
2. Numbed area is prepared for insertion of post.
3. Implant post is gently inserted.
4. Post in its final position.
5. Sutures are applied to aid healing.
6. Osseo-integration process begins.

 

Phase 3: Implant Uncovering

The vast majority of the time the implants are not submerged under the gum thereby eliminating the need for an uncovering procedure.  Implants are often submerged if bone regeneration was performed at the time of implant placement or if there is the concern of a removable denture pressing against the implants.  If the implants were submerged at the time of placement, a second procedure will be needed to expose the implants. This is minor procedure in which a small incision is made in the gum in the area of the dental implants.   Many times this is done with the laser.  A titanium healing abutment is placed on top of the implant and the gum is sutured around it. The prosthetic phase can usually begin in 2-3 weeks time.

 

1. Submerged abutments are exposed through small incision.
2. Healing caps are inserted into existing posts.
3. Gums are sutured around healing caps.
4. After 2-3 weeks, area is ready for prosthetic phase.

 

Phase 4: Prosthetics

Your dentist will make the replacement teeth that are held in place by the dental implants. This will take varying lengths of time depending on the type of restoration planned. Your dentist will discuss this with you before treatment begins. Your implant restoration may be cemented onto the implants, or it may be screwed into place. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, a segment of missing teeth, or a whole arch of missing teeth. Implants can also be used to secure a loose denture.

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Phase 5: Maintenance

Just like natural teeth or like the finest automobile, dental implants need ongoing maintenance if you are to realize their full benefit over many decades. This will include proper care at home as well as professional maintenance. Dr. Scharf will work closely with your dentist to custom tailor your maintenance program to your specific needs.

Most patients experience minimal disruption to their daily lives when undergoing dental implant treatment. Most people never have to walk around without teeth during the entire process. This will be discussed with you before any treatment takes place. We believe in no surprises!!

Patients Treated With Dental Implants

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