TL;DR Summary
- The Goal: Replacing a missing tooth correctly requires more than just placing a titanium screw; it requires building a strong, healthy foundation.
- The Strategy: We prioritize saving your natural teeth first. If an implant is necessary, we build a “protective turtleneck” of gum tissue to seal out bacteria, protect the bone, and ensure a natural look.
- The Expert: As a Board-Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, Dr. Barry Feldner brings unmatched surgical expertise to ensure your implant is an investment that lasts a lifetime.
When you are faced with losing a tooth, the decision on how to replace it is one of the most important investments you will make for your health and confidence. Dental implants have become the gold standard for tooth replacement, but not all implants—and not all implant providers—are created equal.
As a periodontist and a Board-Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, I specialize in the complex foundation that supports your teeth. Before you invest your time and resources into an implant, here is what you need to know to ensure your new smile lasts a lifetime.
1. The Specialist’s Instinct: Save the Natural Tooth First
Many patients are surprised to learn that a periodontist’s first goal is not to place an implant. Our primary instinct is always to save your natural tooth if it is a reasonable and healthy option. We utilize advanced techniques to treat disease, restore bone, and cover exposed roots. However, when a tooth truly cannot be saved, an implant is the next best thing. By having a Board-Certified specialist evaluate your mouth, you can rest assured that no tooth is removed prematurely, and every option has been carefully considered.
2. The “Turtleneck” Secret: Why the Foundation Matters
A common misconception is that a dental implant is just a titanium screw placed into the jaw. In reality, the success of an implant depends entirely on the neighborhood surrounding it—specifically, the bone and the gum tissue. Think of your gum tissue like a winter sweater. If the tissue around your implant is thin and weak, it’s like wearing a loose collar in the freezing cold. It leaves the underlying bone exposed to harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and bone loss over time.
We approach implants differently by building a “protective turtleneck.” By utilizing specialized gum grafting techniques during the implant process, we create a thick, robust seal of tissue tightly wrapped around the new tooth. This extra step:
- Protects the Bone: Keeps destructive bacteria out of the implant site.
- Enhances Aesthetics: Ensures a natural, scalloped gum line so the implant blends perfectly with your natural teeth.
- Maximizes Longevity: Provides the structural support needed for the implant to last decades.
3. An Investment in Your Whole-Body Health
Investing in a high-quality dental implant is about more than just restoring your ability to chew or smile for a photo. Missing teeth can lead to bone deterioration in the jaw, which can alter your facial structure over time. Furthermore, unhealthy gums and failing teeth can act as a gateway for bacteria to enter your bloodstream, affecting your systemic health. When done correctly the first time, a dental implant acts as an anchor, preserving your jawbone, sealing out bacteria, and restoring complete function to your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Why should a Board-Certified Periodontist place my implant?
All periodontists complete an additional three years of specialized surgical training beyond dental school. However, achieving “Diplomate” status with the American Board of Periodontology is the highest recognition of achievement within the specialty. It means I have voluntarily passed rigorous written and oral examinations by a panel of internationally respected peers, proving absolute mastery in implantology and periodontal surgery. This expertise is critical for preventing complications and ensuring the implant integrates perfectly with your biology.
Do I have enough bone for a dental implant?
If you have been missing a tooth for a while, the underlying bone may have receded. We perform a thorough 3D evaluation to check your bone volume. If it is too thin, we can perform targeted bone grafting to rebuild the foundation before placing the implant.
How long do dental implants last?
When placed by a specialist in a healthy environment (with adequate bone and thick, protective gum tissue) and maintained with proper oral hygiene, dental implants are designed to be a permanent, lifelong solution.
Ready to protect your foundation and restore your smile? Please schedule your comprehensive implant evaluation to get started today.