DENTAL IMPLANTS

DENTAL IMPLANTS

A dental implant is a structure which replaces a missing tooth with a titanium screw like device. Your dentist inserts this implant into the jawbone which acts like an anchor for an artificial tooth called crown to fit in.

Implants have several advantages over dentures and bridges which are removable and uncomfortable for the patient

• They are more natural and comfortable for the patient
• They are biocompatible and easily acceptable by the bone
• They have very high success rates
• They improve the chewing function drastically
• They have a lower risk of cavity development in adjacent
• They do not increase sensitivity in adjacent teeth
• They are permanent if properly maintained
• They do not need to be taken out or cleaned every night

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

The ideal person for a dental implant is one with good general and oral health. There needs to be adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant, and healthy gum tissue which is free of periodontal disease.

In some patients with high blood sugars, Poor diabetes  control, smokers and patients with bone diseases dental implants are sometimes discouraged due to risk of infection and poor maintenance.

What is dental implant procedure?

Depending upon your specific condition, tooth space and the number of teeth to be replaced your dentist will create a specialized treatment plan which will include taking full mouth x-rays and sometimes specialized x-rays called CBCT to evaluate the level of bone and surrounding tissues.

Sometimes when there is inadequate bone space your dentist will recommend procedures like sinus augmentation and ridge modification for successful placement of Implants.

Dental implant procedure is usually carried out in three phases:

The first step is the surgical phase wherein your dentist will administer local anesthesia and place the titanium screw in the jawbone corresponding to the missing tooth. The gum is closed on the top and initial healing occurs in 5 to 7 days.