Whether replacing a single tooth or several teeth, implants may provide a more
natural appearance and feel. Unlike conventional bridgework, implants can provide
tooth replacement without the need to cut down adjacent teeth. The dental preparation
of healthy teeth can undermine their integrity and lead to further problems later
on. In addition to preservation of the adjacent teeth, the implant also prevents
the loss of bone in the area of the missing tooth. Immediately following the
loss of a tooth the bone begins to melt away. Replacing the tooth with a implant
restores function to the bone and prevents the resorption of the bone.
How the implant works
To replace a tooth with an implant, Dr. Krause places the implant in the bone
in the position of the missing tooth root. This subsequently acts as an anchor
to which a new crown is attached after the implant has undergone an integration
period. The final restoration is placed by Dr. Krause four to six months after
the placement of initial dental implants.
