Dental Implants

Dr. Steven Levy has been restoring mouths to beauty and function with dental implants since 1986.

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that 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 that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. Implants replace the root of the missing tooth. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth which are attached to the implant.

In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants can replace a single tooth to an entire mouth of teeth. They support crowns (caps) or serve as secure anchors for dentures. No longer do denture-wearers have to endure the inconvenience or embarrassment of loose teeth.

Dental implants are alternatives to dentures. Implants enable people to bite into an apple or ear of corn. They can chew their steaks and taste their food better.

Another benefit is that implants help to preserve your existing jawbone in the area they are placed. This helps prevent progressive bone loss and subsequent facial aging so often seen in individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and concerns will be addressed by Dr. Levy. Your questions are important to us. Dr. Levy will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

View a 1 minute video on dental implants Broadband, Dial Up

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone, usually by a periodontist or oral surgeon. Small posts (abutments) are then attached to the implants by Dr. Levy, which protrude through the gums. These abutments provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The periodontist or oral surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Then, Dr. Levy will be able to begin making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts (abutments) or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Please see our Photo Gallery for before and after examples of Dental Implants.

Please see our Advanced Technology section for Digital X-Rays of Dental Implants.