2855 N Hwy 67, Florissant, MO 63033

3D Imaging in Florissant, MO

Cone Beam CT Scan

ICAT-FLXV17 scanner The ICAT-FLXV17 system gives our oral and maxillofacial practice state-of-the-art technology to help Dr. Heatrice diagnose potential issues more accurately and provide treatment with unprecedented confidence. Unlike a traditional spiral CT scanner, this 3D system utilizes cone beam CT technology and provides precise, crystal-clear digital images while minimizing your exposure to radiation.

Our new 3D system enables us to perform a wider range of diagnoses and treatments in our office, helping to reduce multiple visits. The ICAT-FLXV17 scanner allows us to choose the field of view, or scanning area, that best suits your specific treatment needs. This helps to limit your radiation exposure because we are focusing specifically on your area of concern.

The ICAT-FLXV17 system brings the latest 3D technology to Premier Institute Of Oral & Facial Surgery, providing unmatched visualization of anatomical detail which aids in treatment planning and helps us to better explain the particulars of your case, as well as address any questions you may have. Dr. Heatrice can use this innovative technology to quickly and easily share 3D images of the area of concern with your referring doctor – allowing the doctors to collaborate on your care, improving your experience, and delivering a positive treatment outcome.

Ready to Schedule a Consultation?

Dr. Alexander Heatrice delivers personalized dental care and thorough evaluations to help you maintain a healthy mouth and a confident smile. Contact us today!

Call Us (314) 627-1953

Bone Grafting for Implants

Do I Have Enough Bone for Dental Implants?

After a tooth extraction, the socket will often fill in naturally with bone within two to three months if the surrounding walls are thick; however, when the bone is thin—commonly in the front teeth—healing can be less predictable. In these cases, a bone graft is typically placed at the time of extraction to preserve the width and volume of bone needed for future implant placement. If a tooth has been missing for many years and the bone has significantly thinned, a graft may also be placed later and allowed to heal for several months before an implant can be placed.

In some situations, additional bone grafting may be needed in the upper jaw if the sinus cavities are large or extend into areas where implants are planned. This may require a sinus grafting procedure, during which the sinus membrane is gently lifted and bone is added to create sufficient height for implant placement. Bone grafting procedures are generally comfortable and can often be performed in the office with local anesthesia, sometimes in combination with sedation, and in certain cases may be completed at the same time as implant placement.

Ceramic Dental Implants

A Holistic Dentistry Approach to Dental Implants

What are Ceramic Implants?

Dental implants are made of posts that are screwed into the jawbone, anchoring the final crown restoration and serving as excellent replacements for missing teeth. Since the 1960s, these artificial teeth have been made of titanium. In 1987, Zirconia dental implants were introduced into dental implantology as a metal free, ceramic alternative.

Are Ceramic Dental Implants Safe?

The possible risks posed by ceramic dental implants are essentially the same as metal implants and any surgery in which a foreign body is placed in the body: infection at the implant site, injury or damage to surrounding structures, nerve damage, and sinus problems. However, the success rate of ceramic implants, which means no implant failure, is over 97%, and we have found that the unsurpassed level of our doctor’s expertise and training ensure the most optimal results possible.

After Implant Placement FAQ

Many options are available, and they are tailored to your specific requirements. If you need a replacement tooth while the implants are healing, temporary removable teeth or a temporary bridge can be made. If all of your teeth are missing, we can usually modify your present complete denture or make you a new temporary denture.

If you would prefer non-removable teeth during the healing phase, temporary transitional implants usually can be placed along with the permanent implants, and temporary teeth may be made and inserted the same day. Depending on your particular situation, some implants can be placed and “loaded” immediately. This means a temporary or permanent replacement tooth can be placed on, or shortly after, the day the implant is placed.

Benefits of Ceramic Implants

Biocompatibility

Osseointegration is the amazing process of an implant (made of foreign material) fusing with bone. Zirconia—the component used in ceramic implants—has proven to be a truly biocompatible substance that can fully integrate with your jaw, while not affecting the health of the nearby tissue.

Durability

Ceramic implants are built to last, and because of the excellent biocompatible material of Zirconia, they prove durable and secure under the most extreme masticatory pressure.

Allergies

A very popular advantage of ceramic implants is the fact that they are hypoallergenic. The metal free factor provides peace of mind for patients with allergies or even mild sensitivity to metals.

Experience the difference of Premier Institute Of Oral & Facial Surgery

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Our Office

2855 N Hwy 67
Florissant, MO 63033

Premier Institute of Oral & Facial Surgery Phone Number (314) 627-1953

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