Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that is attached to a titanium rod implanted in the jawbone. A implant is essentially the rod without the tooth attached. It can serve as a long-term anchor for a crown, bridge or denture, which relies on the support of the implant itself, rather than its integration with the jaw bone. A patient who would have needed a bone graft to be a candidate for a traditional implant may be able to receive a implant without the graft, and have the same long-term results.

Benefits Of Implants

Considered a developing treatment, implants have several advantages over traditional implants, which may include:

Implantation procedure is much less invasive
Less expensive than standard-sized dental implants
Provide a good implant option for senior citizens

Many patients use implants to replace teeth and incisors, or teeth in narrow areas of the mouth. implants work best as anchors for lower dentures, and are about half the price of regular implants.

The Implant Procedure

Implants are titanium cylinders that act as a tooth root for a crown, bridge or denture. Regular implants require three to six months of osseointegration, the process in which the implant fuses with the bone. However, implants can be placed directly into the underlying bone, in one sitting, in a simple procedure that takes less than two hours. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation to reduce any discomfort.

Most patients experience immediate results from implants and can often eat within a few hours. There are no sutures used during this procedure, and no need for the numerous follow-up appointments required by traditional implants.

*click on image to enlarge.

Risks And Complications Of Implants

Implants are considered safer than traditional implants because of the shorter procedure time and the elimination of the osseointegration process. Infection, bleeding, gum damage and other problems are considered rare.

Dental Implants FAQs

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium anchors implanted into the jawbone that hold replacement teeth in place. The root of the implant sits in the jawbone beneath the gum line and the visible tooth, or crown, is attached to the root. Implants look and feel much like natural teeth. They support individual artificial teeth, bridges, and dentures.

Who Is A Candidate For Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an option for patients who have lost one or more teeth, cannot chew or smile comfortably, or are unhappy with dentures. Candidates for dental implants must be in overall good health and have strong gums and bones. Patients must follow excellent oral hygiene, which includes brushing, flossing and regular dental examinations. Patients with a high risk of developing periodontal or gum disease, such as smokers and diabetics, may not be good candidates for dental implants. Dentists will review the patient’s oral health and take X-rays to determine their eligibility.

What Is The Dental Implantation Process?

The dental implant procedure involves several steps:

The First Step

– One or more implants are precisely placed into the jaw bone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth.

The Second Step

– After appropriate healing time has taken place, to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown.

The Final Step

– The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process.

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?

Dental implants fit securely and allow patients to chew normally. They are cosmetically similar to natural teeth, so patients can smile without being self-conscious. Implants also prevent decay in the jawbone that can accompany tooth loss.

What Are The Risks Of Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implant surgery is a relatively safe procedure. As with any other surgery, some risks may exist. These risks may include complications from surgery, such as excessive bleeding and a reaction to anesthesia. The dentist will discuss the risks in greater detail prior to the surgery.

Will The New Teeth Feel Natural?

Yes, dental implants look and feel much like natural teeth. They are constructed to mimic real teeth and are fused to the jawbone so they feel secure. Implants are often more comfortable and fit better than other replacement options.