Dental implants are an effective, realistic and permanent solution for missing teeth. But what are they, and how do they work?
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are screw-like, small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jaw and beneath the gumline to act as a replacement root for a missing tooth. In a process called Osseo integration, your jawbone integrates with the threads of the titanium screw, creating a strong anchor for an artificial tooth, a fixed bridge, a partial denture or even full dentures.
Once the site heals, an abutment is connected to the implant. This post sits partially inside your jaw or gumline. The other part extends out of the gum and attaches to the crown. The crown is customised to look and feel just like a natural tooth.
Types of dental implant materials
The implant is made from high-quality biocompatible titanium. The abutment that connects the implant to the crown can be either titanium or ceramic.
Crowns are generally made out of porcelain or ceramic, as these can be tinted to match the rest of your natural teeth. However, some crowns are made out of metals. Some patients like crowns made out of precious metals. Other times, a dentist might recommend a metal crown if the tooth is in the back of the mouth and experiences a lot of chewing to prolong the life of the crown.
How long does a dental implant procedure take?
Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that can take several months. The exact timeframe for a dental implant procedure depends a lot upon your individual circumstances.
For instance, the health of your jaw determines how quickly osseointegration between implant and bone will transpire. This rate of osseointegration, in turn, will control how much time is needed before the abutment and crown can be fitted to the implant.
At your first appointment, the old tooth will be extracted, and if necessary your dentist will perform a bone grafting procedure to strengthen your jawline. Your dentist will give your jaw several weeks to heal after this initial step.
Afterwards, or if neither of these two steps is necessary, your dentist will surgically place the implant into the jaw. It will take your jaw approximately 6 to 12 weeks to heal; thereafter your dentist will fit the abutment and crown onto the implant.
Dental implant success rate
Dental implants have a success rate of up to 95%, making them a safe and effective solution for missing teeth.
It helps you look and feel more natural
Unlike dentures, implants don’t slip or fall out. You don’t have to take them out to clean them, and you don’t have to worry about them moving around when you’re talking or trying to make a good impression.
Many people are turning to implants as an alternative to traditional dentures: you can secure a whole row of artificial teeth in place with dental implants, so you no longer have to worry about the embarrassment of them slipping.
Dental implants look and feel natural. No one but you and your dentist will ever know you have a dental implant.
Implants make eating easier
Unlike dentures, you don’t have to take special care and attention when eating with implants. You don’t have to fuss with cleaning them afterwards, either: you just eat, brush, and floss, just like you would with your normal teeth.
Best replacement option for missing teeth
Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. As long-lasting, durable, and incredibly sturdy alternatives to dentures or above-jawline dental work like a fixed dental bridge or a partial denture, they provide what other options simply can’t. They not only replace the tooth but the entire tooth root system to promote a healthy jawbone, a younger appearance, and a fully functioning and beautiful smile.
Protect your healthy smile
Because of dental implant technology, there are even more options available to help you keep your smile - and your whole mouth - healthy. In the past, dentists have used dental bridges to replace teeth, often having to prep neighbouring healthy teeth in the process. With dental implants, multiple teeth can sit on the same implant root system, meaning that even in extreme cases, your healthy, natural teeth aren’t impacted.
Conclusion
Dental implants provide an incredible tooth-replacement solution that utilises both modern tools and technology and your body’s incredible ability to heal. Talk to your dentist today to see if a dental implant is right for you.
Disclaimer: This article is contributed by a Guest Blogger. Ping of Health does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. Ping of Health disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
