Dental implants are artificial roots that provide a foundation for tooth restoration. With dental implants, missing teeth can be replaced with crowns, bridges, or dentures. The replacement teeth look great and allow you to eat and chew normally. Additionally, dental implants can preserve facial structure by preventing the bone loss that typically occurs when you have missing teeth.
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Implants are typically made of 100% titanium, which is an extremely biocompatible metal. The cells in your jawbone will actually attach to the implant, which fuses it directly to the bone. The implant is connected to a small post that serves as the foundation for tooth restoration.
Implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss. Dental implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or groups of missing teeth. These artificial roots are used to support crowns, bridges, or dentures that look and feel natural.
If you’re interested in dental implants, contact your dentist for a consultation. In general, dental implantation can be performed on patients with good oral health. Medical conditions, including diabetes, cancer, and periodontal (gum) disease may need to be treated before dental implant surgery.
Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implantation. This could involve x-rays to verify that you have adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant. Based on the results of your examination, your dentist will recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Dental implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry. Studies have shown that the average five-year success rate is 85% to 95%. However, there are never any guarantees.
Implants can fail if the bone doesn’t attach to the surface of the implant. This can occur if the bone is soft or if the implant is unstable. Other reasons for failure include post-surgical infection and poor oral hygiene.
Smoking depletes important nutrients and reduces blood flow, which can affect the healing process. This means that smoking is one of the greatest risk factors in dental implant failure. If you are a smoker, consider quitting before dental implantation.
If an implant fails, it can typically be replaced, as long you have enough bone and tissue to support the implant.
The entire implant process takes place over the course of a few months. If your dentist has determined that you’re a good candidate for dental implantation, the process is started when your dentist first places the implant.
In most cases, implants can be placed using local anesthesia. When you’re sufficiently numb, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum and insert the implant. More than one implant can be placed at once. In complex cases, your dentist may recommend general anesthesia in a hospital environment.
The healing process usually takes 3 to 6 months. A temporary restoration can be used during this period, so you’ll be able to eat and speak normally. You will need to attend regular follow-up visits to ensure that the healing process is progressing as planned.
After healing is complete and the implant has attached to the bone, your dentist will place a post that will be used to support the restoration. After taking impressions, your dentist will permanently restore your teeth using crowns, bridges, or dentures. Your new smile will look as beautiful as it did before you ever lost your teeth – or even better !
Your dentist will recommend regular checkups to examine your implants and restorations. Excellent oral hygiene practices are essential to maintain implant function. Brush your teeth and floss twice daily to keep your teeth, implants, and restorations healthy and free of plaque. Your dentist will work with you to develop a care plan that will allow you to maintain your new smile for life.