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Dental implants have become popular as a
result of successful advances in oral surgery techniques
and improved bio-materials. Patients who have a clear
understanding of dental implants can make informed
choices about their treatment options. |
What Are Dental Implants?
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 Dental
implants are made of various bio-materials, usually
titanium. These are surgically placed into the
jawbone to anchor permanent replacement teeth.
Replacement teeth are then attached to the part of the
implant that projects from the gums. Approved and
tested dental implant systems are very
successful. In fact, some have lasted more than 20 years
with a better than 90 percent success rate. Patients who
have good oral hygiene habits and regular
dental checkups can enjoy dental implants
that last a lifetime.
How Do Dental Implants Work? |
Dental implants replace the form
and function of missing teeth. They support
replacement teeth in the same way that your tooth
roots support your natural teeth. Various
replacement options are available. Dental implants
can provide:
- Non-removable tooth
replacements in the toothless jaw.
- Support for a
full denture,
making it more secure and comfortable.
- Support a
fixed bridge,
eliminating the need for a removable partial
denture.
- Assistance in the replacement
of a single tooth without the need to alter
adjacent natural teeth.
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What Does The Implant Procedure Involve?
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First, you need to discuss your
restorative options with your dentist.
Dental implants are usually performed by a dental
team consisting of a surgeon (oral and
maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist) and
restorative dentist. The first visit will consist of
taking a medical and dental history and
completing a thorough oral examination. X-rays
of your remaining teeth and bone, intraoral
photographs and impressions of your remaining teeth will
be taken. The dental team will use this
information to formulate a treatment plan. The
second visit will consist of explaining and discussing
your treatment options with you. |
Before & After Photos of Dental Implants
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Dental Implants Are A Three Step Process
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| The first
step is the surgical placement of
the implants into the bone. This is
usually done in the dental office, but in some
instances a brief hospital stay may be
necessary. The surgery will be done with
local anesthesia; a general anesthetic
may be used to ensure your comfort during a
surgery. After the implants are surgically
placed into the bone, the gums are
covered over the implants for a healing
period of three to six months. |
| The second
step is the surgical exposure of
the top of the implant and attachment of
the abutments to the implant. (The
abutment attaches the implant to the
prosthesis.) This is a short procedure and
usually requires only local anesthesia. |
| The third
step is the restorative phase.
The restorative dentist will take
impressions of your abutments, teeth and jaws.
He or she will then fabricate a prosthesis
that will attach to the implants. This
will require several visits and may take a month
to be completed. |
| What Are The
Risks Of Dental Implant Surgery? |
| The risks of
dental implant surgery are similar to other
oral surgical procedures, which include
bleeding and infection. Specific
complications, such as sinus problems or
numbness due to nerve injury, will be
discussed by your dental team. Occasionally
an implant may loosen from the bone,
requiring it to be removed. Due to
individual differences, implant success
cannot be guaranteed. |
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What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants? |
| Dental
implants replace your missing teeth and help
elevate your sense of self-confidence when
you chew, talk or eat in public. Implants
will give retention and stability to
dentures, thus preventing sores or clicking
noises when you talk. Implants eliminate the
need to grind down adjacent natural teeth
for bridgework. Implants can eliminate the
need for a
removable partial denture. |
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What Is The Recovery Period? |
| The recovery
period will vary among individual patients,
but may last one to two weeks; you may
experience slight pain, bruising or swelling
in the area of the surgery. Postoperative
pain medication and antibiotics will be
prescribed by the surgeon to aid the healing
process. You may require a liquid diet
during the first few days after the surgery. |
| Dental
implants require a time commitment from
three to nine months. They may also require
additional oral hygiene home care for
optimal maintenance. Finally, dental
implants require a much greater financial
investment than a
removable bridge or
conventional denture. |
| A Final Word
About Dental Implants |
| Dental
implants provide an opportunity to
regain that comfort and feeling of security
our natural teeth once provided. As
with any procedure, we encourage you to
discuss questions or concerns you may have
about dental implants. Your smile is
our first concern. |
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