The Three Stages of Traditional Dental Implant Surgery

Serving patients in Wayne, Pennsylvania, James A. Vito, DMD, is a periodontist and prosthodontist with a broad skill-set in implant dentistry. Focusing on implants, James A. Vito, DMD, assists his clients in better understanding what to expect in a dental implant scenario.

Traditional dental implant procedures include three surgical steps. The first involves burying the implant into the bone under the gum line. This will require the patient to heal for some time before proceeding to the next step, which includes attaching a post to the implant called an abutment. Once again, the gum is allowed to heal around the abutment. The third and final step involves placing the prosthetic tooth in place over the abutment.

Dental implant surgeries have a traditional success rate of 90 percent or higher. Sometimes, a dental implant may not fully integrate. However, dentists can provide their patients with the best advice and expectations for their procedure.

There is a one-stage dental implant surgery process available as well. Procedures vary, depending on the patient’s needs. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals consult with dentists who are experienced in a range of such surgeries.

Mini Implants Gaining Popularity

James A. Vito, DMD, is a dentist in Wayne, Pennsylvania, who concentrates on periodontics and implant dentistry. As an implant dentist, James A. Vito, DMD, can offer his patients a variety of procedures, including mini implants.

While many have heard of dental implants, mini implants are something of a best-kept secret. Mini implants are gentle, simple and do not require surgery. Being just half the width of a normal implant, mini implants are not fully submerged into the gum. For those who wear dentures, two to four tiny steel posts are installed and the dentures snap right over them. This simple procedure makes mini implants ideal for many denture wearers or those missing a tooth in a narrow space. Patients who could consider mini implants are those who have experienced bone loss or who need a less-expensive option than traditional implants. Mini implants are a fraction of the cost of full implants. Unfortunately, many insurance carriers still do not cover mini implant procedures. Therefore, it’s best to consult with a dentist to get the best recommendation for a particular situation.

Dental implant procedures have the potential to change patients’ lives. Many report higher levels of confidence and more reasons to smile after having such work done.