Dental implants have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry, providing a durable, long-lasting option for people missing one or more teeth. This post will take a closer look at what dental implants are and how they are placed.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, typically made from medical-grade titanium, that serves as a foundation for a replacement tooth. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the natural bone in a process known as Osseointegration. Once healed, the implant provides a stable base for supporting a custom-made artificial tooth, or crown.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
The placement of a dental implant usually involves several stages and may take a few months to complete. Here are the general steps:
Initial Consultation and Planning:
The first step is a comprehensive dental exam, including dental X-rays and 3D images, and a thorough review of your medical history. This helps the dentist assess the condition of your oral health and determine whether you’re a good candidate for implants.
Tooth Extraction:
If the damaged or decayed tooth is still present, it will need to be extracted.
Bone Grafting (if necessary):
If your jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, you may need bone grafting before you can have dental implant surgery. This process involves adding bone (either from your own body or a synthetic material) to your jawbone. It can take several months for the grafted bone to grow enough new bone to support a dental implant.
Implant Placement:
The dental implant surgery involves making a small incision in the gum to expose the bone, then drilling a hole and placing the titanium implant post. The site is then allowed to heal and the implant to integrate with the bone, which typically takes several months.
Abutment Placement:
Once Osseointegration is complete, an additional minor surgery is performed to attach the abutment, the piece to which the crown will be attached. This procedure typically requires a couple of weeks for the gums to heal.
Crown Placement:
After your gums have healed, a mold of your mouth will be taken. It is used to create a custom crown that matches your natural teeth. The crown is then attached to the abutment.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits:
- They look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
- They’re durable and can last many years, potentially a lifetime.
- They help preserve jawbone, preventing the bone loss that occurs when teeth are lost.
- They support facial structure, preventing the sagging and premature aging that can occur with tooth loss.
Conclusion
Dental implants have a high success rate. But as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications, which your dentist will discuss with you. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a durable and attractive replacement for missing teeth.
Latest Posts
Dental Crown Guide: When Is It Needed And What Are Its Advantages?
Introduction to Dental Crowns Dental crowns are a critical aspect of dental health, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. They are essentially caps or covers, custom-made to fit over a tooth that is damaged or decayed, improving its appearance and strength. A crown can be made from various materials such as porcelain, zirconia, gold alloy, […]
Why Do I Need to Floss and What Is the Best Way to Floss My Teeth?
Flossing is an integral part of dental hygiene, playing a critical role in maintaining oral health. Here’s everything you need to know about the best ways to floss your teeth, its importance, and tips for effective oral hygiene. Understanding Oral Hygiene and Flossing What is Oral Hygiene? Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping one’s […]
Why Do I Need Fillings If I Have No Pain?
Understanding Dental Fillings Dental fillings are a common dental procedure designed to restore the integrity and function of a tooth compromised by decay or damage. When decay creates a cavity, it must be removed to prevent further deterioration of the tooth. After the decay is excavated, the resultant void is “filled” with a dental material […]