A Guide To Root Form Dental Implants

The most realistic and naturally feeling replacement teeth are dental implants. Compared to dentures, these mimic a real structure because they have a root that is supported by the bone, just like real teeth. The root is the most defining and important aspect of the tooth. It is made of titanium which the bone will osseointegrate, or fuse with as it is accepted. Although made of metal, the root will act just as a natural one and keeps the upper portion of tooth anchored in the proper place. The only difference in feeling between the artificial titanium root and the natural is that there are no ligaments or tissues that work with the metal. Initially, the feeling may seem unusual when chewing, but most patients adapt to this sensation quickly. 

A dentist will go through many steps to properly fit a patient for dental implants. The first step is to make a blueprint that will guide them through the procedure. This will involve taking x-rays and in some cases CT scans of the teeth, and then using technology to map out the oral cavity. There are many structures that must be involved in the process including the jawbone, muscles, and nasal cavity. Using software programs such as CAD, a model will be reproduced so that the dentist can clearly create guidelines as to where to drill and at what angles. 

Patients seeking this procedure will require an adequate amount of existing bone in order to provide proper integration of the titanium screws. If there is not enough available, a bone graft will be placed, generally near the sinus area. Once sufficient bone growth is reached, the procedure can continue. The surface of the bone is then prepared with a drill and afterwards the pilot holes are created deep into the jaw. The hole will be gradually widened with a series of larger drill bits until the root or screw can be secured. The screw is then carefully placed into the hole and tightened. Too much tightening can damage the bone and result in rejection of the dental implants, so this step needs to be performed with great accuracy and planning. 

The time frame from tooth extraction to completed dental implants will vary by dentist recommendations and individuals. Immediate loading is when the dentist extracts teeth and then creates the implantations within a few days or weeks after the initial procedure. Typically, most patients will find themselves waiting between one to over three months and then there is an additional waiting period after osseointegration for the restoration to be added. People seeking a single tooth replacement who have healthy bone and gums are the most likely candidate for immediate loading and a quick restoration. 

Dental implants have a high success rate with an estimated less than 5% rejection. Patients who required bone grafts or have a history of heavy smoking are at the greatest risk of complications. There is no consensus among dentists as to how long they will last, but it is estimated upwards of 25 years to a lifetime if maintained properly.