A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is secured in your jaw to hold an artificial replacement tooth or dental bridge. It is usually made of titanium, which is biocompatible with the body. A dental implant is undoubtedly the best tooth replacement option that currently exists.
A dental implant can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. It can also be used to support adental bridge (implant-supported bridge) or dentures (implant-supported denture).
A dental implant will look, fit, feel and function like your natural teeth. It can accurately match the size, shape and colour of your natural teeth.
When a missing tooth leaves an empty space in the mouth, bone loss will occur in that area. With no tooth being supported by the jawbone, the bone in that area will begin to deteriorate. Once the deterioration progresses, it can affect the facial appearance in that area, leading to a sunken or sagging look in severe cases. A dental implant prevents bone loss from occurring, because it is placed in the jawbone. This provides the stimulation that the jawbone requires to maintain its strength and purpose.
In addition to the bone loss that occurs with a missing tooth or missing teeth, drifting of teeth is another concern. The gap or empty space that is left by a missing tooth or teeth, causes the nearby teeth to begin to drift into that area. Over time, this drifting can affect biting function and the appearance of the smile.
With proper oral care and regular dental cleanings, a dental implant can last a lifetime. Other tooth replacement may only last five to ten years at most before they must be replaced. Dental implants may only require minor adjustments over time to maintain them.
Many people report having increased confidence due to the secure and stable nature of dental implants. Unlike dentures, there is no worry about the implant becoming loose or affecting speech.
A dental bridge requires that the nearby teeth be modified in order to fit the crown portion of the dental bridge. This means that natural tooth material must be removed to accommodate the dental bridge. A dental implant is made to fit seamlessly without any modification to the neighbouring teeth.
Enjoy all of your favourite foods without restriction, thanks to dental implants. The secure fit allows you to eat and bite normally. You are also able to fully taste all of your food, because it does not cover any of your taste receptors, unlike a denture.
Your dentist must first determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. They will take your general health and level of jawbone present, along with other factors when determining your treatment plan.
The dental implant is placed into the jawbone at the first appointment. If an implant-supported bridge or denture will be placed, multiple dental implants will be placed at this appointment.
The area is closed up and allowed to heal. The implant will fuse to the jawbone, to form a secure foundation for the replacement tooth. Healing times vary for each patient, since it may take weeks to months to properly heal.
Once healing has completed, an abutment, which is a small connector or attachment is secured on top of the dental implant. This connector allows the replacement tooth to be secured to the dental implant. Each dental implant has its own connector.
The replacement tooth, implant-supported bridge or implant-supported denture is then secured to the connector or attachment. You are now ready to enjoy all of the benefits that dental implants provide!
The first step is to schedule a consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Rest assured that most patients are able to have this treatment. Your dentist will discuss all of the tooth replacement options that are best suited for your needs.