Since the introduction in North America in the early 1980''s, dental implant surgery has been a two-stage surgical procedure. The first stage involves creating a mucoperiosteal flap, placement of the titanium implants, and closure of the surgical flap back over the implants. Three to five months is allowed for the healing process. The second stage involves the uncovering of the implants and the placement of the abutments. Fabrication of the prosthetic restoration can then proceed. This multi-step process has become the paradigm and its success is well demonstrated.
Efforts to decrease the number of steps and total treatment time have led to the introduction of a successful one-stage computer guided implant surgery with immediate function. Advancements in diagnostic imaging and computer technology have led to 3-dimensional imaging via computer tomography and the ability to manipulate these images with software on personal computers. This technique allows the fabrication of a precise surgical stent which provides for precise surgical placement of the implants. The precision of this process allows for the fabrication of a prosthesis that can be inserted at the time of surgery and be functional immediately. The Teeth in an Hour technique was introduced in 2003 and Dr. Scott was the first surgeon in North America to perform this procedure.
Although this technique can be employed for partial and fully edentulous jaws, not every patient is a candidate for this surgery. If you have an interest in the Teeth in an Hour procedure, please make an inquiry at your Implant Consultation appointment.