Dental implants are important choice for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made up of titanium which are inserted into the jaw for fusing with bone over period of time. This process of osseointegration is important for laying stabilized foundation for crowns, bridges or overdentures.
Good Candidates for Implants
-
Complete growth & maturation of the jawbone
-
Has sufficient bone density for holding implants in location, or match the requirements for a bone graft
-
Exhibit signs of healthy oral health and have no signs of periodontal disease
-
Do not suffer from any medical conditions that may hinder the healing of bone
Advantages of Dental Implants
-
Maintaining dental health and preventing bone loss
-
Compared to bridges, there's no need to alter the adjacent teeth
-
Preventing drooping by offering support for the face structures
-
Improved ease and efficiency throughout chewing
-
Preventing adjacent teeth from moving into the space
-
Great aesthetic outcomes
-
Longevity, if it is properly maintained and managed
Process of Getting an Implant
It involves various steps and detailed planning:
A thorough oral health examination discussing available treatments followed by which there might be extraction of teeth and, if needed, bone grafting for adequate bone support for the dental implants.
While placing implant, local anesthesia is given to reduce any discomfort or pain.
Implants need time to heal and fully fuse with bone. An abutment is placed which serves as an attachment for replacing tooth with crown, bridge or denture.
Types of Dental Implants
-
Endosteal Implants: These are directly placed in jawbone
-
Subperiosteal Implants: Placed under the gum but above the jawbone, typically used when bone density is insufficient for endosteal implants
Care and Maintenance of Dental Implants
Proper care, regular brushing, flossing & routine dental checks extend the life of dental implants.
Risks and Considerations
Implant failure, infections at the implant site, harm to neighboring structures, and problems from pre-existing medical disorders are just some of the possible dangers associated with dental implants, given their high success rate. Your dentist may decrease these risks with an in-depth examination.