Modern advances in dental science now allow us to offer patients safe, successful and proven procedures for the installation of permanent nonremovable replacement teeth called dental implants. These tooth replacements look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants have solved many problems associated with tooth loss that previously required replacement by removable full or partial dentures.
    The procedure, referred to as osseointegration, provides patients with the comfort and assurance of permanent teeth. Many patients find that dental implants restore their self-confidence and self-esteem and improve their quality of life.

Osseointegration is the adherence of living bone to a biocompatible implant. In the 1970's, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon thoroughly investigated this phenomenon. He identified the precise type of materials and surgical techniques necessary to ensure a lasting union between the bone and the implant surface. Dr. Becker completed training in this technique at the Branemark Institute in Sweden. Since 1984, Dr. Becker has been placing root form implants, and he is the first dentist in southeastern Wisconsin to do so.
    As the result of additional research, the procedure has been refined to enable gentle insertion of the implants into the patient's jawbone with minimal postoperative discomfort. Dr. Becker performs implant surgery here in our office, in a sterile setting, using a local anesthetic. Like most patients, you should be able to return to work the day after surgery. Implant-supported teeth will enable you to have a lifetime of comfort and self-confidence, Diagram A.

Step 1: Dr. Becker will make an incision to expose the bone over the implant sites and then use special instruments to prepare the implant sites in the jawbone, Diagram B.
    Step 2: Dr. Becker will insert the implants into the jawbone and then replace and suture the incised gum tissue, Diagram C.
    Step 3: After a healing period of three to eight months, Dr. Becker will expose the top of each implant to confirm successful osseointegration. He will then place connectors that will secure the replacement teeth to the implants, Diagram D.
    Step 4: Your restorative dentist will attach the replacement teeth to the connectors, thus providing you with function and stability for many years to come, Diagram E.

Most people are candidates for dental implants, regardless of age, health status,
or the state of the jawbone. The amount of available bone present is the primary consideration. Dr. Becker will use specialized x-ray techniques and a clinical examination to determine if you have enough available bone to be a candidate for dental implants. How can you benefit from dental implants?

If you have lost one or more natural teeth, you can benefit from implant surgery. Implants provide an “anchor” for your lower or upper denture, Diagram F, and a method for replacing your partial or full denture with fixed bridgework, Diagram G, or a single missing tooth, Diagram H. Implants can improve your quality of life, as you will no longer be frustrated by the inconveniences of dentures or removable bridgework. Implants can also improve your chewing ability and restore the feeling of natural teeth.

Several decades of clinical studies have shown that this type of tooth replacement offers long-term durability. As with any procedure dealing with living bone and natural functions, there can be no guarantee. Studies have demonstrated a success rate of more than 90 percent.

Like most of our patients, you may have only minor discomfort similar to that associated with simple tooth extraction. If you currently wear a full or partial denture, the denture may have to be modified with a soft lining. Dr. Becker may recommend that you leave the denture out for a short time.

You have unique physical requirements and aesthetic desires that Dr. Becker will take into account and discuss in evaluating the benefits you will derive from dental implants. Whether you are a candidate for implants can only be determined during your confidential consultation with Dr. Becker. At that time, please feel free to ask questions and discuss available treatment options. We encourage you to call and to arrange a consultation. It is your first step toward self-improvement, confidence and enjoyment of life.

The potential and expertise of our highly trained and well-qualified doctors are best realized and optimized when these doctors are united with members of your implant team. You can enjoy the confidence of having the highest level of professional care when you have Dr. Becker, an expert in implant placement, and a restorative dentist working together to achieve the long-term success of your dental implants.