What Are Dental Implants?
Mason, Ohio
 Dental implants mimic the natural tooth structure all the way down to the root. The actual implant part of dental implants is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone. Titanium is biocompatible, which allows the implant to fuse with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. This fusion of the implant and the jawbone provides a stable, durable foundation that allows dental implant restorations to function just like natural teeth. After osseointegration an abutment is attached to the implant, and an implant supported crown is attached to the abutment.
Dental implants provide the most secure anchor possible for prosthetics, and stimulate bone growth in the jaw. This prevents the loss of bone density, and facial sagging that comes with missing teeth. In addition, single tooth dental implants prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting. These benefits make single tooth dental implants that support a crown, or multiple tooth dental implants that support a bridge or denture, the preferred restorations for our patients.
Dental Implant Procedure
A dental implant procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient. We use advanced imaging technology such as X-rays and CT scans so the team can assess the bone density, gum health, habits, and overall oral health of the patient.
Patients with insufficient bone height or insufficient bone density may require a bone graft to stimulate growth in the jaw before implant placement. Patients who smoke, or have diabetes may not be good candidates for the procedure. Smoking and diabetes create problems with healing and osseointegration. Once candidacy has been established, we take impressions to fabricate custom made crowns, bridges, or dentures that match the patient's natural teeth, and will be secured by the dental implants.
Next, we formulate a treatment plan with the patient, and set the date for implant placement surgery. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, where we place the titanium implant into the jawbone. After placement, the healing phase is crucial. This is where osseointegration takes place and secures the implant. The healing process takes a few months. Temporary prosthetics are provided to patients while we wait to attach the abutments, and prosthetics.
Once the implant has fully integrated into the jawbone, the abutment is attached. The abutment is the connection between the titanium implant within the jawbone, and the crown above the gumline. The prosthetic chosen may be a custom made crown for a single tooth dental implant. Bridges or dentures are chosen for multiple tooth dental implants. Finally, the prosthetic is attached to the abutments, and the dental implants are complete. But patients must follow all aftercare instructions, including regular brushing and flossing, to ensure the health and longevity of their dental implants.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the only restoration that mimic natural teeth all the way down to the root. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants offer security and stability that allows patients to speak and chew easily and efficiently. Dental implants allow patients to enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions. But traditional dentures and bridges come with diet limitations.
In addition, the implants prevent bone loss by mimicking natural tooth roots, and stimulating growth in the jawbone. This preserves facial structure, and prevents premature aging. Over time, extensive tooth loss leads to a sunken, sagging appearance in the face. Unlike removable dentures, implants eliminate discomfort due to poor fit, speech impediments, and slippage. Patients choose dental implants because they improve confidence, and overall quality of life.
Dental Implant Options
Dental implants provide a wide range of options for tooth replacement. A single tooth dental implant with a durable single implant supported crown creates a seamless smile after a tooth has been lost.
Multiple missing teeth can be replaced with implant supported bridges. An implant supported bridge avoids the need to prepare the adjacent teeth, which is required to support a traditional bridge. The preparation, and attachment of the bridge can wear on the adjacent, natural teeth over time and create the need for more procedures.
When patients have lost an entire arch of teeth, they often choose implant supported dentures. These custom made dentures mimic the patient's natural teeth, and the implants offer much more security, stability, and comfort compared to traditional dentures. But an entire arch of teeth only requires four or six implants to support the denture. So patients get the security of implants with less surgery, and less recovery time.
Dental Implant Considerations
Dental implants are safe and effective, and due to careful candidacy requirements, the vast majority of implant procedures are successful. However, certain factors influence outcomes and longevity.
Bone height and density are critical for implants to remain stable for years to come. Patients without the height or density required must undergo bone grafting procedures and healing prior to implant placement. Systemic conditions like diabetes and smoking negatively affect healing and osseointegration. These conditions must be carefully considered before the procedure because they greatly increase the risk of implant failure. Lastly, meticulous oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits are a requirement to prevent peri-implantitis, a condition similar to periodontal gum disease.
Dental Implant Advancements
The evolution of dental implant technology and techniques continues to push the field forward in terms of precision, predictability, and patient comfort. Computer guided implant placement gives our team ultra precise positioning. This minimizes surgical trauma, and accelerates healing. Advanced biomaterials enhance osseointegration and promote faster healing, which reduces treatment timelines. In addition, some implants enable same day placement and restoration. This offers the convenience of having a restored, functional smile in a single day.
Dental implants are the height of modern dentistry. They offer gorgeous new smile solutions for tooth loss, with the security of artificial tooth roots. With the ability to restore a smile's form, function, and a patient's confidence, implants have become the highest standard in tooth replacement. Dental implants empower patients to smile, eat, and live their lives with restored confidence of a brand new smile. |
