Dental Implants: A Quick Summary

Dental implants are artificial or false teeth that are used to take the place of any missing teeth. Dental implants are made of metal, generally titanium as it bonds pretty well biologically with the living bone.

According to recent studies, roughly 22 million people in the US have no teeth at all or wear dentures. For these individuals, dental implants can offer a welcome alternative. In this article we will provide a general overview of the process as well as what to expect if you choose to undergo the treatment.

This procedure provides a base for replacement tooth that look and function just as natural ones. The inserts themselves are small titanium posts which are surgically placed in the jaw in spots where teeth have gone missing. Eventually, the bone grows to the titanium, which creates a strong foundation for the artificial teeth.

Standard Implants: Generally, the treatment is performed in two surgical procedures. The dentist begins by peeling back the gum tissue for inspection purposes in order to avoid nerve damage. Once proper placement is decided, the implants are placed into the jawbone. Over the next three to six months, the jawbone bonds to the implants. During this time, the replacement tooth is created by the dentist. Once the inserts are fully bonded, the new teeth are ready to be installed.

The second procedure consists of uncovering the inserts and attaching the posts which act as the anchors for the new tooth. Each one is then attached to its designated post. The entire process typically takes around nine months to complete.

Advancements: Dentists are now offering a new and innovative technique, which allows for patients to receive their teeth in a quick and easy one-hour office visit. During an initial appointment, the physician with snap a 3-D image of the patients jaws using an ICAT machine. When used in combination with new computer technology, the images show dentists the exact anatomy of the jaw without having to intrude upon the patient’s mouth.

The dentist is then able to plan the treatment with great accuracy and eliminate potential issues prior to the patient even arriving for the actual procedure. As the physician plans the surgery, a laboratory molds the replacement tooth.

While implants are able to last a lifetime, if one becomes cracked or chipped, there may be cause for a replacement.
This technique is also beneficial in that the dentist is able to insert the post directly through the gums to the jawbone. As most of these procedures are accomplished by cutting open the gums, no cutting means less pain and trauma for the patient.

If you are considering this type of treatment for yourself, do your research. Be sure to pick a physician who is experienced and confident in their ability to effectively help your situation. Be prepared, and get psyched…. Your new smile is just around the corner.

Article Tags: Replacement Tooth

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