Implants Can Restore Your Health and Confidence after Tooth Loss
Dental implants are recognized as the best option available to replace missing or severely damaged teeth. Dr. Chester V. Clark, Jr. performs all stages of treatment at our Amity, AR, office, from placement to restoration. As a faith-based practice committed to implementing holistic dentistry techniques, Amity Gentle Dental uses only the highest quality biocompatible materials. Dr. Clark prefers Bicon® implants, which can help our patients avoid the need for invasive preparatory procedures and also facilitate greater bone regeneration. We offer both traditional and mini implants to meet the varied needs of our patients, and offer financing to cover out-of-pocket costs.
Introduction to Bicon SHORT® Implants
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts which are surgically embedded in the jaw to replace tooth roots. During a process known as osseointegration, the metal fuses with the surrounding bone to offer an incredibly stable foundation for a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Unlike traditional dental prosthetics, implant-supported restorations can stop the bone loss that occurs after teeth are lost.
More Conservative Treatment
Patients who require an implant in the upper jaw often require a sinus lift. This preparatory procedure can extend treatment time by several months and increase total treatment cost. Because Bicon implants are shorter, patients often have sufficient room in the jaw without the need for additional surgery.
Reduced Risk of Infection
Unlike other implants that require screws to attach the abutment to the implant, Bicon uses a one-piece integrated abutment crown with a friction-grip attachment to the implant. This minimizes the risk of infection and often allows new bone growth around the top of the implant.
Greater Bone Density
Thanks to this innovative design, Bicon products can also catalyze more bone growth than other implant options. By acting similarly to dental roots, the posts draw nutrients to the area that are necessary to maintain strong, dense bone tissue.
Implants maintain evenly distributed pressure when using dentures to chew. Because the implants are rigidly fixed in the jaw, the restoration will never slip or move out of place.
The Treatment Process
During your initial consultation, Dr. Clark will discuss your treatment goals and evaluate your oral and general health. If he determines you are a good candidate, you can view diagrams and pictures to gain a better visual understanding of the procedure.
Preparatory Procedures
In some cases, additional procedures will be necessary to prepare the treatment area. Dr. Clark can often perform bone grafts in our office, which are used to replace any recessed bone tissue in the jaw. When patients require an extraction immediately followed by implant placement, or choose to receive All-on-4® dental implants, he may coordinate care with a trusted oral surgeon.
Implant Placement and Restoration
The treatment process is broken down into two main stages: first is the surgical placement of the implants and second is the restoration, which a crown, bridge, or denture is attached. Once the implant has been placed in the bone, the gums may be sutured closed or a temporary restoration may be placed. After a period of four to six months, Dr. Clark will evaluate whether the post has properly fused with the surrounding bone. At this time, the top of the implant will be accessed, impressions will be taken, and a healing cap will be placed. Roughly three weeks later, you will return to our office to have your final restoration placed.
Restore Your Health and Appearance
At Amity Gentle Dental, we have taken pride in enhancing patients' smiles since 1977. Our Christian practice continues to serve the community using only techniques and materials that will benefit your health for years to come. Our bilingual staff provides assistance to both English and Spanish-speaking patients. To learn more about whether implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Clark by contacting us online or calling (870) 342-5265.