Dental Implants in Brookline, MA

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 are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which 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.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

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 specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Whiteman. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure is a success.

Surgical Advances in Dental Implants

Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Whiteman is able to place single or multiple implants in one visit.  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.

 Dr. Whiteman performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting , if necessary. Then approximately 4-6 months later he will fabricate the permanent restoration (i.e the tooth). In addition, he will fabricate any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts or abutments are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for the replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first four to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. 

After the dental implant has bonded to the jaw bone, the second phase begins. At that point, Dr. Whiteman will uncover the implant(s) and attach a small healing collar. Next, a digital impression is taken with his CEREC machine so he can begin making your new teeth.  Two weeks later, the posts or attachments (abutments) are connected to the implants and the new teeth are secured onto them. Voila!! Your smile is restored and no one would know you have a dental implant! The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Implant Supported Dentures

An Implant supported denture is a type of overdenture that is supported by and attached to dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely solely on the gums for support and retention, implant supported dentures are anchored in place by dental implants surgically placed by Dr. Whiteman into the jawbone. This provides increased stability and prevents the denture from shifting or slipping when eating or speaking. Implant supported dentures offer improved comfort, function and confidence for patients who have lost multiple teeth.