Dental Implants in Medford, NJ

Medford Periodontics offers single-tooth implants and implant-supported dentures to help patients who are missing only a few teeth or an entire arch.

Implant surgery may be intimidating, but the process is surprisingly straightforward:

Step 1: Bone Grafting and Socket Preservation

When the periodontist extracts the natural tooth, they perform a socket preservation procedure known as a bone graft. During socket preservation, the periodontist adds freeze-dried, ground bone material to the jawbone. The material may be natural or artificial.

Over about four to six months, the natural bone tissue grows around the grafted material, strengthening the jaw and providing a solid place to insert the dental implant post.

Step 2: Placing the Post

Next, the periodontist makes a small opening in the jawbone and places the implant post. The implant post must heal for about six to nine months before the abutment and crown are installed.

Step 3: Final Restoration

The patient's restorative dentist cooperates to produce a crown that perfectly matches the patient's existing teeth. The dentist torques the crown to the abutment, creating a solid connection.

The restorative dentist may also opt for a denture or bridge, depending on the number and placement of missing teeth.

After placing the final crown, the patient can chew, speak, and smile without problems.

• Natural look and feel
• Easy care, requiring the same level of attention as healthy teeth
• Protect the jawbone from further deterioration
• Improve confidence and self-image
• Improve chewing ability
• Patients can eat nearly anything they want

Good candidates for dental implants are non-smokers or willing to quit. They have no uncontrolled tooth decay or gum disease, and they do not have medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes that may impede healing.