By using a wand-like tool connected to a computer and advanced software, a dentist can create a virtual model of the hard and soft tissues in the mouth. These replicas are more accurate than a mold, and can be used for a variety of needs. After taking a scan of the mouth, a dentist can immediately send the digital impression to a lab where dentures, crowns, bridges, and retainers can be made quickly and accurately.
Digital impressions are less messy and more pleasant than the goopy traditional mold material. Patients with a severe gag reflex or sensitive teeth can enjoy a more comfortable experience while a dentist takes the digital impression. Since the dentist can see the completed scan immediately on the monitor, they know if there are any inaccuracies in the image and can re-do it while the patient is still in the chair.
If you’ve lost one tooth, or need to replace one that is about to be extracted we can place an implant, abutment and crown to fill in the gap from the missing tooth or the one that will be extracted. There are two ways we can do this with you during an extraction. The exciting information here is we’re able to do this 7 days a week as we have the specialists on staff able to do these procedures.
As we extract the tooth, we place the post in the empty socket along with bone graft material and collagen membrane. We also place the abutment and the temporary crown allowing you to walk out of the office with your tooth replacement. Aesthetically you have all your teeth as you leave the office.
As we extract the tooth, we can place the post in the empty socket and fill in with bone graft and a collagen membrane to keep all intact. Healing will take place around the post allowing the implant and bone to seal together. You would not need to come back for surgical placement as that step would be completed. This will allow for soft tissue healing and building bone around the post.
This should help preserve soft tissue form and contour, reduce the number of surgical appointments, reduce treatment time and costs, and ultimately optimize aesthetic results. The next step would be the placement of the abutment and crown to the post when everything has healed.
