Missing tooth can cause oral problems. It also makes a person uncomfortable and conscious while going about everyday activities. A prosthetic solution for missing tooth is dental implants. They are artificial roots that support the replacement tooth. Before you opt for dental implants, it is necessary to have a clear idea about how they work and what benefits they offer. Here is a brief overview on dental implants:
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants, in simple terms, are artificial dental roots. They are surgical fixtures made from medical grade titanium inserted into your jawbone to act as root for the artificial tooth. It fuses with the natural jawbone within a few weeks. This process of fusing of the implant with the bone is called osseointegration. After the implant is completely fused, an artificial tooth can be inserted over it using an abutment and crown.
Types Of Dental Implants
There are two types of dental implants namely: Endosteal and Subperiosteal.
Endosteal implants are directly installed in the jawbone. Once it fuses with the gum tissues, a post or a connector can be planted over it surgically. The crown can then be stationed on this post. Subperiosteal implants are metal frames placed over the jawbone just below the gum tissues. It can be used as a base to install an artificial tooth.
Of the two types, endosteal implants are widely used in cosmetic dentistry.
Procedure For Dental Implants
The entire procedure of inserting an implant to crown takes about two to four months. Initially, the dentist examines the area where the implant needs to be placed. X-rays are taken and analyzed to determine how much extra bone is required to install an implant of the correct size. Teeth extraction may also be done in conjuction with implant placement.
Once the site with a strong bone structure is selected, the dental implant or the titanium post, is drilled into the jaw bone. After the post is in place, a healing cap is placed over it for protection from any oral infections. A temporary denture or a crown may be inserted for esthetic reasons.
Once the osseointegration is complete, impression is taken to connect a prosthetic component called the abutment to the implant. The abutment supports the crown to be placed.
Advantages Of Dental Implants
Following are some advantages of dental implants –
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Implants act exactly like the natural tooth root. They offer the same stability and security to your tooth as a natural root would.
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Implants need no special maintenance. Your regular oral care routine can take care of it’s maintenance.
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Dental implants do not affect nearby teeth or disturb their setting. They stand stably on their own without triggering misalignment of the surrounding teeth.
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Since dental implants stimulates the jaw bone, it helps preserve the bone structure.
Dental implants are a well-established option for missing tooth. But, to prevent the problem of missing tooth, it is always better to take care of your teeth. You can find tips on some healthy dental practices here. You can contact us here at Signature Smilez for further enquiry on dental implants.