Dental Implants

Having a healthy, strong, intact set of teeth is directly related to your quality of life. From broadening your food selections to raising self confidence, dental implants are a life-changing procedure for many. Dental implants provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and perform like natural teeth. Patients with dental implants can eat virtually any food, and they can feel confident knowing that their implant looks natural and their facial structure remains intact. From bridges and over-dentures to a single crown, dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss.

Dr. Eklund specializes in Endosteal (in the bone) Dental Implants, Subperiosteal (on the bone) Dental Implants, Mini-Implants, and Single Stage Dental Implants. Even for those with limited bone structure, Dr. Eklund excels at adding bone to ridges, pockets, and sinuses to create ideal sites for implants.With a solid structure in place, a dental implant allows for the placement of crowns of veneers so you can achieve a natural looking and attractive smile.

Dr. Eklund has been recognized by his peers for his outstanding level of quality care. He placed the first temporary anchorage device (TAD) in the world in 1983. This procedure generated a profound paradigm shift in how skeletal anchorage could be used for dental implantology and was the basis for many of the procedures used today. Over the last 34 years, Dr. Eklund has successfully placed over 6,000 dental implants.  In addition to his numerous professional honors, Dr. Eklund is a highly respected speaker who is often asked to lecture on the latest advances in dental implants.

What is a Dental Implant?

With dental implants a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone, creating an artificial root.The bone bonds with the titanium and creates a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant.These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Dental implants can be used to provide secure and comfortable denture support; to replace a single missing tooth without relying on neighboring teeth for support; and to support bridgework and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.

Single Stage Surgery for Dental Implants

Dental implants have traditionally been implanted in a two-step approach. The first surgery is to place the implant and the second surgery several months later is to surgically uncover the implant to place the crown. This can be a traumatic experience for patients, especially when multiple implants are involved or if bone surgery is required.

Dr. Eklund specializes in Single Stage Surgery, which requires only one surgical procedure. You come in to have the implant placed, and a tall cover screw is used to keep the implant from submerging. After a four week healing period for the bone to grow onto the implant, the abutment post is placed and you’re ready for the dental crown – no additional surgery is required! The Single Stage Surgery procedure offers a quicker recovery, less time off of work and in the oral surgeon’s office, and minimal pain and overall discomfort.

Dental Implants in an Hour

Dental implants normally require four months of healing time before a crown can be placed. In some cases, Dr. Eklund can extract the tooth, place the implant and coordinate with your dentist for fabrication of a temporary crown -- all in the same day. This procedure still necessitates several months of healing before fabrication of the permanent crown. The same-day dental implant process offers improved aesthetics, faster results, and the peace of mind of not having to wear a removable replacement tooth.

Guided Implant Surgery

Dr. Eklund uses the most recent advancements in dental implant technology such as guided implant surgery. With the process, the doctors use a dental CT scan (or I-CAT) to get a clear picture of your jaw in three dimensions. The dental CT scan allows him to see the height and width of your jawbone and plan for any complications such as irregular sinuses or aberrant nerves. Using this 3-D software, the doctors can visualize your surgery beforehand and create a surgical guide in order to place your implants in the most optimal position.

Mini Implants

Dr. Eklund has extensive experience placing mini implants. Although small bone screws were originally designed as transitional implants, new surface treatments allow them to function permanently. These small implants may be used for over dentures in patients with limited bone or as a transition to wider onesoinegrated implants. Advantages of the mini implants include lower cost and limited or no bone preparations.

Who Will Perform my Dental Implant?

Implants are performed jointly between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and your dentist. Dr. Eklund performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and any necessary bone grafting.  Your dentist will fit and create the permanent prosthesis and create any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

What Types of Prostheses are Available?

• Single prosthesis (crown) - Used to replace one missing tooth.  Each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant.
• Partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) - Can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants.
• Complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) - Replaces all teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants will vary dependent upon which type of complete prosthesis you receive.
• Removable prosthesis (over denture) - Attaches to a bar or ball in socket attachments and may be removed by the patient, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.

Why Do I Need Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a proven solution for the facial pain, embarrassment, and frustration that accompany tooth loss.Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing. Those who have received a dental implant procedure remark that it has changed their life. Dental implants can improve your self-confidence and give you peace of mind.

Because dental implants integrate into your bone structure, they prevent the bone loss and recessed gums that can accompany bridgework and dentures.Your oral health is directly related to your general physical health. Doing your part to maintain a healthy mouth and gums will help ensure an overall better quality of life.

Should You Get a Dental Implant?

If you are thinking about receiving dental implants, call our offices. Dr. Eklund will examine you and review your medical and dental history. He will also explain your options and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. In some cases, options to dental implants such as bone grafting, may be a better choice. Together you and Dr. Eklund can determine if dental implants are the right solution to your problem.

What Type of Anesthesia Should You Use?

Every patient is offered a choice of anesthesia. You can choose between a local anesthetic, a local anesthetic with nitrous oxide (laughing gas), IV sedation (twilight sleep), or general anesthesia.Our goal is to ensure your maximum comfort, minimum expense, and minimum time away from leisure and work. No matter which option you choose, the trained staff at Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery will be at your side to reassure you and answer any questions you may have. Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure performed in complete comfort at Southwest Oral & Implant Surgery’s sterile surgical suite.

How Do I Care for my Dental Implants?

You care for your dental implants in the same was you do for your natural teeth. Brush, floss, and practice good overall oral hygiene. Keep regular appointments with your dentist. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Contact Us

If you are a dentist or a physician who is interested in referring your patients to Dr. Eklund, visit the Referring Doctors section for more information. If you are a patient who would like to schedule an appointment, visit the Contact Us section for hours, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses.