1. I request and authorize Dr. Alnahas and/or associates to perform the surgical placement of dental implants upon me. This procedure has been recommended to me by my dentist as an option to replace my natural teeth. Dental implants are metal anchors put inside the jawbone underneath the gum line. Small posts are attached to the implants and artificial teeth or dentures are fastened to the posts.

Most patients need two surgical procedures to install the implants. The first procedure involves drilling small holes into the jawbone and placing the anchors. A temporary denture may be worn for a few months while the anchors bond with the jawbone and the gum and bone heals. The second procedure will uncover the implants to allow for attachment of the posts. After the posts are in place, the replacement teeth, in the form of fixed or removable bridgework or a denture, are fastened to the posts. Depending on the condition of the mouth, bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration also might be necessary to install the anchors and posts. The potential benefits of this procedure include the replacement of missing natural teeth or supporting dentures.