Dental implants help to replace the root of a missing tooth. They are made of a permanent threaded cylinder that’s inserted into the jaw bone.
The embedded implant then fuses and bonds with the natural bone and acts as the base for the tooth replacement, also known as dental crown. They look, feel and function like natural teeth and can replace just one tooth or all 28. They are long-lasting and stay in place without coming loose, even during cleaning or eating. The base is made from titanium, a lightweight and durable material that can last decades.
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is a patient with healthy gums, good oral health, and a satisfactory lower jaw structure for a stable foundation for the implant. Patients who lack bone volume in their jaw should first opt for a dental bone graft.
There are two options for implants: endosteal and subperiosteal.
Endosteal implants are inserted in the jawbone, and subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum, on or above the jawbone. Before installing the implant, dentists need to first extract the teeth. They can insert the implant 4-6 months after the extraction to allow proper healing and strengthening. However, it must be done within a year to prevent the remaining teeth from migrating.
Before the dental implant procedure, patients receive local anesthesia. Then, the doctors insert the implant into the open space of the jawbone; the implant acts as the root of the new tooth. The top of the implant sits just above the surface of the gum. It takes another 4-6 months for the implant to integrate with the natural bone. The doctor takes molds, photographs, x-rays, and 3D scans to create a customized crown or bridge for each patient. Once the implant has bonded, dentists place a connector on the implant to keep the dental crown in place. The results look and feel natural, and the implant will match the patient's natural tooth shape and color.
The entire process from extraction to dental crown insertion can take 3-9 months. Doctors recommend rinsing and gargling with salt water after the surgical procedure to help prevent bacterial build-up and to improve healing. Depending on their case, patients may need a soft or liquid diet for a few days. As with any procedure, dental implants include some risks, such as infections, breakage, and nerve damage. But implants enjoy a proven track record and offer one-of-a-kind solutions.
