Are you missing one or more teeth? Dental implants may be the best way to fill in the gap and restore your smile. Dental implants are a long-lasting, secure option for missing teeth, and they look and function just like natural teeth.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of dental implants and whether they might be the right choice for you. We’ll take a look at the different types of dental implants and answer some common questions about the procedure.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are surgically implanted posts that are used to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. The posts are typically made of titanium, a metal that is well-tolerated by the body.
The replacement tooth or bridge is then attached to the post. This creates a stable, secure anchor for the tooth, and allows it to look and function just like a natural tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The primary benefit of dental implants is that they offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. This can potentially save you time and money in the long run, as there is no need to replace the implant every few years, as there is with other types of replacements.
Dental implants also look and feel just like natural teeth, and because they are implanted directly into the jaw, they are less likely to slip or fall out than other types of replacements.
Types of Dental Implants
There are a few different types of dental implants, and the type you choose will depend on your individual needs and the recommendation of your dentist.
Endosteal Implants: These are the most common type of dental implants. They are placed directly into the jawbone, and once the gum has healed, an artificial tooth or bridge is attached to the post.
Subperiosteal Implants: These implants are placed above the jawbone. They are not as common as endosteal implants, and are sometimes used when there is not enough bone structure to support endosteal implants.
Candidacy for Dental Implants
Most people are good candidates for dental implants. However, you will need to have adequate bone structure in your jaw in order to support the implant.
Your dentist may recommend a bone graft if you do not have enough bone structure. This is a surgical procedure in which a piece of bone is taken from another part of your body or from a donor, and attached to the jawbone.
In addition, you should be in good general health, as certain medical conditions can increase the risk of complications during the implant procedure.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps. Your dentist will start by taking x-rays to determine the best location for the implants. This is followed by the surgical placement of the posts.
Once the posts are in place, the gum will be allowed to heal around the posts, a process that typically takes a few months. After the gum has healed, the artificial tooth or bridge will be attached to the posts.
Conclusion
Dental implants are a long-lasting, secure option for replacing missing teeth. They look and feel just like natural teeth, and can potentially save you time and money in the long run.
There are a few different types of implants, and the type you choose will depend on your individual needs and the recommendation of your dentist. Most people are good candidates for dental implants, as long as they have adequate bone structure and are in good general health.