Dental implants are a revolutionary technology that provides a permanent and long-lasting alternative to dentures and dental bridges for replacing missing teeth.
If you have missing teeth, you may be unable to consume a balanced diet because your chewing ability may be impaired, and without teeth, your jawbone may deteriorate and weaken. Missing teeth also place added pressure on your remaining teeth which can lead to increased wear-and-tear and decay as teeth shift into the gap, and your face can lose volume making you appear older.
Unlike dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing single or multiple teeth. Tiny biocompatible titanium implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, providing stability and structure to the jaw and creating a foundation for an abutment and dental crown to sit on top.
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options including:
There is a healing period of 3-6 months following dental implant surgery and the initial cost is more than other solutions. But given their longevity, they may be the more cost-effective option.
Dental implants can last for up to 25 years or more with proper care and maintenance, making dental implants a worthwhile investment in your oral health.
Once the affected tooth is extracted, and the area prepared, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. Your dentist creates a small hole into the jaw and places the titanium implant. After the gum tissue is sutured, you may need to wait for a few months while your body heals and the implant integrates with the jaw and gum tissue.
At your next session, the abutment and crown are attached to the titanium implant. Implants can be used to support a bridge to replace multiple teeth or an entire arch of missing teeth. The crown is matched to the shade of your natural teeth making the implant virtually indistinguishable from your other teeth.
Any patient in good health who has missing teeth due to trauma, tooth decay or gum disease is a candidate for a dental implant. However, if you have insufficient jawbone, you may need a bone graft before your implant surgery.