Losing a tooth by accident or extraction creates a space that allows nearby teeth to shift or tilt, and teeth across from the gap to move downward or upward. Aside from cosmetic concerns, this tilting and shifting can lead to severe bite problems including jaw pain and headaches. Tooth loss, resulting from failed root canals, periodontal disease, decay or injury, can also lead to vertical shortening of the face, which becomes more evident with age.

For years, bridges and dentures were the only options for people who had lost teeth. Today, dental implants can permanently replace missing teeth. They allow many patients who need to replace a single tooth to avoid having to crown two extra teeth to place a bridge.

They are a very effective way of allowing people with ill-fitting bridgework or dentures to smile again with confidence and to enjoy the foods they love. Implants can anchor dentures, so they fit more securely and comfortably.

Implants may also help preserve bone mass and facial structure.

Unlike a dental bridge, which relies on neighboring teeth for support, dental implants leave more of your own teeth unaffected and reduce the risk for gum disease because they make it easier to remove plaque.

The Latest Advancements in Implant Dentistry – CT Guided Implant Stents

Dr. Orobitg is bringing some of the latest advancements in dental implants to patients in Lake and Sumter County.

Using computer CT Guided Implant Stents, Dr. Orobitg is able to review and evaluate your anatomic structures (including bone structure, nerves, sinuses, etc) to treat many of his patients who need dental implants with even greater accuracy than ever before.

Combining 2D and 3D technologies, including CT, he is able to interactively pre-plan implant procedures prior to performing them. Surgical templates can be created using CAD/CAM technology to help us place your implants in a well-planned manner.  Virtually everything is visualized ahead of the procedure.

What are the benefits?

With this technology, we can:

• Increase accuracy – transferring 3D implants from a virtual model to your mouth
• Make implant procedures even less invasive – using a small tissue punch and no flap
• Reduce treatment and recovery time
• Minimize complications
• Enhance your end results

Custom Abutments

What goes on top of a dental implant after it is placed? A dental implant is made of three parts: the implant, which is secured in the gum and jaw, an abutment which is attached to an implant and supports the crown, and the crown which is the actual new tooth you see. Dr. Orobitg will often create a custom abutment (rather than use a stock or pre-fabricated abutment, which he believes is critical to achieving the best-possible look and function of your implant and helps improve its longevity.

The custom abutment captures both the position of the implant, and also the shape of the surrounding gum tissue, so the tissue is able to come up and around the crown for a more natural look without dark “margins”. In addition to the aesthetics, having a properly fitted abutment and crown means they will be easier to keep clean and healthy.

Dental implants are a wonderful advance in the field of restorative dentistry. We invite you to learn more about implant dentistry by talking with Dr. Orobitg. Simply set an appointment to learn if dental implants are the right solution for you.