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About:
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Dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures and bridges. The implant is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone where the tooth roots used to be. Once the implant is in place, it encourages your body to fuse bone to it. This creates a solid base for your tooth restoration. Implants are most commonly made of titanium and are a safe, biocompatible material that is well-known for encouraging osseointegration.
Most people who are missing teeth or have failing tooth restorations can be candidates for dental implants. The general oral health of the patient is a major factor in determining whether they are eligible for a dental implant. Infections can interfere with healing and damage facial bones or teeth. Smoking can also cause complications after surgery and slow down the healing process.
Before surgery, patients should follow a strict oral care plan. This includes frequent brushing and flossing as well as avoiding chewing hard food. It is also recommended that patients visit their dentist every six months for an oral evaluation to make sure their mouth and gums are healthy. Patients that do not maintain a proper oral hygiene regimen are more likely to experience long-term problems with their implant such as gum disease, which can cause the implant to fail and require surgery to remove it.
The treatment planning phase of dental implants involves a series X-rays that evaluate the amount and quality of bone in both the upper and lower jaws. This is done to determine if the bone is sufficient to support the implant. If not, a bone graft may be necessary. There are a number of different types of bone graft materials available, including bone from another area in your body or a synthetic bone-substitute that can stimulate new bone growth. The type of graft you choose will depend on the needs that you have and will be discussed during your consultation.
If you do have enough bone to receive an implant, the next step is to schedule a surgery appointment. During the procedure your oral surgeon will make a cut on your gum to expose your bone. Holes are then drilled into the bone where the implant metal post will be placed. The implant abutment is then attached to the post and the restoration (mostly a crown) is placed over it.
Once the restoration is placed, the implant abutment will not be visible. If you would like it to be less visible, you can request that the abutment be shaped so it sits lower in your gumline.
Dental implants are an excellent option to replace a single or multiple missing teeth due to their durability and lifelike appearance. With proper maintenance, an implant will last a lifetime. Please contact our office if you'd like to know more about this treatment. Our team will be happy assist you!
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