Dental Implants
A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth as a result of injury, periodontal disease, or any other reason. In this procedure, a small titanium post is surgically implanted into the bone and allowed to set. The bone grows around it forming a tight connection. Once the implant is firmly set in the mouth, the dentist then works to attach the replacement tooth onto the top of the post.
While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. This permanent solution has the advantages over bridge work that it does not stress the surrounding teeth for support, and, should the tooth wear out, another can simply be replaced on the post.
Implants can also be used as support as part of an implant bridge. This is an alternative to removable partial dentures, and has several advantages. First, there is no adjustment period to acclimatize the patient who, once the work is done, only feels teeth, not metal supports intruding into the mouth. Second, this slows the bone loss occasioned by missing teeth. Third, there is no discomfort or difficulty in eating. And, best of all, of course, they don’t have to be taken out all the time.
To receive implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. You must also be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits as these are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.
