Permanent Missing Tooth Replacement
Dental Implants
The popularity of dental implants has exploded recently. Although many patients enjoy better dental health than in years past, tooth loss remains common. The fact that people are living longer than ever means that there are more seniors out there who still want to be able to smile with confidence and eat all of their favorite foods so that they can enjoy their retirement.
Once an adult tooth is lost, it cannot be regrown. Fortunately, dental implants are available to provide the next best thing. As the name suggests, implants are implanted into the jawbone. So this is a type of restoration that cannot slip or fall out, as dentures sometimes can.
Dental Implant Structure
- Titanium metal rod: This is the part that is actually inserted into the jawbone. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that is strong and durable.
- Abutment: This is a connecting piece that fits over the implanted metal rod, allowing for the third and final component to be placed.
- Dental crown: Your dentist places the dental crown over the abutment piece to provide the appearance of a natural tooth and a solid chewing surface.
Dental Implants Benefits
Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits, including:
Stability
By implanting the dental implant directly into your jawbone, your dentist is providing you with a highly stable tooth replacement that will not shift or fall out. You have the ability to bite down and chew on the implant using the same force as with your original teeth.
Prevents Bone Loss
Having missing teeth goes beyond mere cosmetics. Without the presence of a tooth root, natural or artificial, the jawbone underneath begins to melt away. This process is called resorption and can even cause undesirable changes to the facial structure when the area begins collapsing inward.
Bone Graft Procedure
The bone graft is an optional step needed for those who lack enough bone mass to support a dental implant. Bone may be replaced or grown, depending upon the needs of the patient.
Dental Implant Procedure
Most dental implant procedures are performed under local anesthesia. Your dentist will drill a hole for the placement of your implant. They will place the implant into this hole and likely place some bone graft material around the dental implant to fill in the area.
The next step involves waiting. You must wait a few weeks or months to give time for your jawbone to fuse around your implant. Once this process is complete, you will return for another appointment to have a dental crown placed over the entire structure, allowing you to bite and chew with normal force.
Schedule Your Consultation
Are dentures and bridges unappealing to you? Dental implants are a state-of-the-art tooth replacement with a 95% success rate. If you are interested in learning if you would make a good candidate to receive a dental implant, please contact us today to schedule your dental implant consultation.
