Dental Implants - A Permanent Solution For A Difficult Problem

Difficulty in chewing, loose bridges, or missing teeth can all have an adverse affect on your life. If you hide your smile because you have large gaps between your teeth, or you are missing teeth, there is good news. Now there is a permanent solution to your problem - dental implants.

A dental implant is an artificial root implanted in the jaw by a periodontist. The new root is then able to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are ideal for someone that has lost a tooth due to injury or periodontal disease. They also work well for those looking to support a denture or bridge to make it more comfortable and secure. An implant dentist typically performs these procedures.

There Are Different Types Of Implants

There are two different types of implants, Endosteal (in the bone) and Subperiosteal (on the bone). Endosteal implants are the most common and utilize blades, cylinders, or screws placed in the jawbone that will then hold one or more artificial teeth. This alternative is usually used for patients that have removable dentures or bridges.

Subperiosteal implants use a metal framework post that protrudes through the gum to hold the artificial tooth. This option is used for patients unable to wear conventional dentures or who have minimal jawbone height.

Your implant dentist will consult with you and your dentist to determine which option is best for you.

Dental Implants Have Many Advantages

The most obvious advantage is that dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. Your friends and family won't even be able to tell you have an implant. Because the dental implant is actually part of your jawbone, it helps to eliminate gum recession that can become a problem with conventional bridgework or dentures.

Your bordering teeth are unaffected by the dental implant. They are not needed for support so the quality of the adjacent teeth is not compromised. This can be a significant benefit to your long-term oral health.

Dental implants are a reliable alternative. The success rate is highly predictable and is now considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

Are Dental Implants For Me?

If you are in good general health and have adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant with healthy gum tissue, then you are an ideal candidate for dental implants. The implant dentist may be part of a professional periodontist team that has studied for years to give you the confidence in knowing that your replacement teeth will look and feel just like natural teeth.

Your implant dentist will consult not only with you, but also with your regular dentist to determine where and how the implant should be placed. This will be decided in part by your desired results along with the quality of your jawbone and gum tissue. Quality bone density is a key to implant success. It is often difficult to place implants in the upper back part of the jaw due to insufficient bone quality and the close proximity to the sinus. In some cases, sinus augmentation may need to be performed to help raise the sinus floor and develop bone for the placement of dental implants.

What To Expect After Treatment

After implants are completed, your implant dentist will continue to work closely with your regular dentist to make sure your new implants are performing to your expectations. Dental implants are just like natural teeth and require the same care. You will need to brush and floss on a regular basis to keep them clean and plaque free. Regular check-ups and professional cleanings are also recommended.