Dental Implants

Implant placement

Stage 1 - Surgery:

A biocompatible titanium implant is placed into the bone of the patient using sterile surgical procedures and intravenous conscious sedation techniques. The implant serves as the “root” of the new tooth.

A number of factors will determine what happens next.

The bone density, initial stability of the implant at the time of surgery, and what the implant will finally support will determine whether the implant has a provisional restoration attached, or whether the bone is allowed more time to heal prior to the “teeth” being added.

Implant following surgery

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

Stage 2

In cases of option 1 above, the implant will remain covered by gum for between three to four months. This technique may be required in cases of extensive bone grafting at the same time as implant placement. In cases where the gum is allowed to heal over the implant, a second phase of surgery to “uncover” the implant will be required. Following the four month healing phase, the implant will be surgically uncovered and an impression taken for the new crown or bridge.

In cases of option 2, the healing abutment will project through the gum into the mouth. In these cases, either a provisional partial denture or a provisional bonded bridge would be used to replace the missing tooth or teeth.

In cases of option 3 above, when a temporary crown is placed at the time of the initial surgery, the definitive crown will not be placed until a healing period of at least three months has occurred and the implant stability assured.

The minimum time for implant reconstruction will therefore vary for every cases. Another three to four months may be required should large bone grafting techniques be required to build up or augment bone prior to implant surgery.

Computer Guided Implant Surgery

Using the latest advances in digital imaging, we are now able to plan the exact positions of dental implants and place them in virtual reality prior to any surgery taking place. This type of planning allows for minimally invasive surgery, as computer guides allow for more accurate implant placement.

A 3-dimensional scan of your jaw is taken, as well as a 3-dimsensional scan of an impression of your mouth. The scans are superimposed to create an accurate 3-dimensional surgical guide that will allow for implant placement.

This simplifies surgery often making it possible to place a fixed provisional bridge on the same day.

All-On 4

All-On-4 refers to an implant reconstruction of all teeth in a particular arch, upper or lower, being supported by only 4 dental implants.

All-on-4 is not an invention, rather a clinical technique that has evolved over many years. The name has been registered as a protected trademark.

Due to the bite forces generated in the mouth and the load bearing capacity of bone, typically more than 4 implants have been used to support a full arch of teeth. Research as far back as 1977 suggested 4 implants may be adequate enough to support a full arch, depending on the type of bone and forces generated.

There are many advantages to immediate implant reconstruction including:

• Minimizing treatment time.
• Immediate “fix” with teeth that do not have to be removed.
• Improved bite force from day 1.

Due to the complex nature of a full arch reconstruction, Dr Sweeney prefers an individual approach to every patient. Four implants may be enough to support, however more may be required.

It is his attention to detail when planning each implant cast that has allowed him to become so well respected in the implant world. Teaching, lecturing and presenting his cases over many years allows him to share this knowledge with students and colleagues alike.

Following comprehensive treatment planning, the most appropriate treatment option for ach individual case will be discussed.