Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life

Dr. Sutor has received extensive training in Implantology. He has been successfully placing implants since 1989, and is the most experienced implant surgeon in Southern Indiana. Continuing education is extremely important to Dr. Sutor which is what lead him to start up the Hoosiers for Dental Excellence Study Club over 13 years ago which has now grown to 25+ members in the Bloomington and surrounding areas. Subsequently, Dr. Sutor is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.

Dental Implant Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are titanium anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are attached to the implant to provide stable anchors in the gums for replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgical procedure. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person, based on a variety of factors, but usually involves 6-12 weeks. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.

For the first 6-12 weeks following surgery, the implants are beneath or level with the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, Dr. Sutor will work closely with your dentist, getting them everything they need to take an impression, so that the posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes three to four months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.