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What Are Dental Implants?
 Dental implants are the only dental restorations that mimic natural tooth roots, which provides patients with the most secure restorations possible, and prevents deterioration of the jawbone. Dental implants offer our patients a reliable, secure, and long-lasting solution to missing teeth. These restorations have earned a reputation for their ability to replace the form of a gorgeous natural smile, as well as its function. Eating and speaking with single tooth dental implants, or multiple tooth dental implants, is just like eating and speaking with natural teeth.What is a Dental Implant Made Of?The actual implants are prosthetic tooth roots surgically inserted into the jawbone to support crowns, dentures, or dental bridges. A single tooth dental implant starts with a titanium post placed in the jaw, it attaches to an abutment, which connects the implant to a crown designed to match the patient's natural teeth around it. Multiple tooth dental implants may be replaced individually in this same way. However, an implant supported bridge or implant supported denture may be used to reduce the number of implants required to replace multiple teeth. Implants mimic the structure of natural teeth down to the root. This provides a stable foundation for restorations. The purpose of dental implants is to restore the function and appearance of missing teeth, and they accomplish that very well. Dental implants offer patients a permanent solution that closely resembles their original, natural smile. Types of Dental ImplantsThere are many types of dental implants that cater to our patient's unique, individual needs: Endosteal Implants implants are the most common type used. An endosteal implant starts with the placement of a titanium post directly into the jawbone. After a healing period, a second surgery is performed to attach the abutment, and lastly, the implant supported crown. Subperiosteal implants are different from endosteal because they sit on top of the jawbone, yet still beneath the gum tissue. This type of implant is suitable for patients who don't have enough bone height or density to support endosteal implants. All-on-4 implants are a comprehensive, multiple tooth dental implant solution for patients with extensive tooth loss. With only four strategically placed implants, a full arch of prosthetic teeth are anchored into the jaw. Implant supported dentures are a more cost effective and efficient solution versus single tooth dental implants. Dental Implant ProcedureDuring the initial consultation, we perform an extensive evaluation on the patient's oral health and medical history. We then take dental impressions, and diagnostic images such as X-rays. CT scans are used to assess bone density and structure. Once the patient is determined to be a good candidate for dental implants, we discuss every detail of the procedure and set a future date for placement. In the initial surgery, we insert the titanium implants into the jawbone. Over several months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue in a process called osseointegration. This integration between the implant and the bone provides a secure foundation for the appropriate restoration. Once osseointegration is complete, a second minor surgery is performed to attach the abutment to the implant. The abutment connects the implant to the crown, bridge, or denture. A custom made dental crown, bridge, or denture is fabricated to match the color, shape, and size of the patient's natural teeth. Lastly, the crown or other prosthetic is securely attached to the abutment to complete the process. Benefits of Dental ImplantsDental implants offer many benefits compared to other restorations such as dentures or bridges, such as how closely they mimic the look of natural teeth. The restorations attached to the implants are custom designed to match the patient's smile. In addition, implants provide a stable foundation for chewing and speaking, unlike traditional dentures that are prone to slipping. Implant supported bridges also prevent wear on the natural teeth because traditional bridges attach to existing teeth which can create excess wear on the adjacent natural teeth over time. Implants stimulate growth in the jawbone. This prevents the bone loss that comes with missing teeth, and prevents the facial sagging that happens as a result of the bone loss. Also, with good oral hygiene habits, and regular check ups with us, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are a durable and permanent tooth replacement solution. Dental Implant ConsiderationsDental implants are safe and effective, however, every surgery comes with some risks. As with any procedure, implant placement carries a risk of infection, but it is rare with proper post operative care. In some cases, the implant may fail to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue. Poor bone quality, smoking, and diabetes increase the risk of osseointegration failure. Also, there is a slight risk of nerve damage during implant placement. Nerve damage may cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the surrounding areas. In addition, Poor oral hygiene following the procedure can cause gum recession around the implant site, which may expose the implant and compromise its stability. Dental Implant MaintenanceBrushing twice daily, and flossing regularly prevents plaque buildup and infection around the implant site, which also helps prevent gum disease. Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding tissues, and to detect and treat any issues quickly. Patients should avoid habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, teeth clenching and grinding, and chewing on hard objects or using teeth as tools. These habits increase the risk of implant failure and other complications. If an implant supported crown, bridge, or denture becomes damaged or loose, patients must contact us immediately to repair the restoration and prevent further complications. Dental implants offer patients a reliable and long lasting solution for missing teeth. They mimic the structure and function of natural teeth, and provide numerous benefits, including a gorgeous smile, perfect oral function, and preservation of bone structure. An implant procedure does carry some risks but proper maintenance and care mitigates those concerns, and ensures the success and longevity of the implant restoration. Dental implants restore our patients' confidence, oral function, and quality of life. For more more information on dental implants, and to find out if you are a candidate, contact us at (971) 417-2135. |
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