Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.

Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.  A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.

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Older man smiling

“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”

For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.

Surgical Advances

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Erickson and Dr. Valladares are able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.

Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist.  Dr. Erickson and Dr. Valladares perform the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary.  The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Prairie Path Oral Surgery

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Amazing Doctor. Don’t change, don’t retire!

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I’ve already recommended Dr. Erickson to many of my friends. It’s not fun having oral surgery, but he & his staff make you very comfortable!!

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I couldn't ask for a better dental experience!

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Very satisfied with overall procedure

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Highly recommended

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The staff and Dr Erickson were absolutely phenomenal. We had to get in quickly to get some impacted wisdom teeth extracted and ended up with some issues that required more anesthesiology help. The staff was more than willing and gracious with their time in helping us negotiate how to get all this done through insurance and the anesthesiologist. They were able to fit us in and Dr Erickson was very very conscientious and kind. I just can't recommend this practice enough!

- Susan S

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Highly recommend

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Overall I had a great experience at Dr. Erickson's office

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My son had all 4 wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Erickson and all of his staff were knowledgeable and friendly. My son's recuperation went smoothly. No surprises! I would definitely recommend this oral surgeon.

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Grateful that my regular dentist referred me to Dr. Erickson.

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EVERYONE working in the office is wonderful! I would absolutely recommend them to any and everyone! Thank you so much for all that you do!

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Fantastic service in an incredibly quick timeframe, and I walked away with no pain and no complaints! Would definitely recommend for anyone who needs their wisdom teeth removed!

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