Dental Implants for Comprehensive and Long-Lasting Tooth Replacement.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root which is inserted into your jawbone by a periodontist as a foundation to hold your replacement teeth in place. Dental implants are the most sophisticated solution to single or several tooth losses. These implants are fixed, which means that they cannot be removed and won’t slip around or fall out. Implants are an effective long-term option for patients who have serious oral problems or have lost multiple teeth compared to dentures, dental bridges and dental crowns. The titanium alloy in the implant is a biocompatible material that fuses with your jawbone. There are two main types of dental implants that you can choose from:
- Endosteal: These are the most commonly used dental implant that is placed in the jawbone. They are placeholder posts typically made of titanium and shaped like screws.
- Subperiosteal: This implant is mainly used for patients with insufficient bone height or who do not want to undergo a bone augmentation procedure. Subperiosteal implants are placed on the top of the jawbone or under the gums with metal frameworks posts protruding through the gum.
Who are good candidates for dental implants?
- People with healthy gums and enough bone support to hold the implant.
- Patients missing a single or multiple teeth.
- People with good oral hygiene and teeth habits.
How long do dental implants last?
A dental implant provides the wearer a comprehensive and long-lasting solution to missing teeth which do not need to frequent periodic restoration and replacements. With regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene, the screw of the implant can last for a lifetime; however, the crown often lasts for about 10–15 years.
Dental implant cost
The dental implant cost varies depending on the number of the teeth you will be replacing and the complexity of the treatment procedure. You can consult with your periodontist to get affordable dental implants that are right for you. You can check your insurance carrier as it can cover a portion of the dental implant cost.
How do dental implants work?
A dental implant offers a more natural tooth replacement that is attached directly to the jawbone. After the consultation with the dentist, you can choose the best dental implants for you. The dental implant procedure can take several hours and may require more than one procedure. A dental implant consists of three parts: an implant made from titanium, an abutment that connects the implant and the crown and a crown which acts as the tooth. The placement of the dental implant typically involves multiple steps such as:
- The dental implant made of titanium which is usually a cylindrical or tapered post is inserted surgically into the jawbone.
- Your implant will then osseointegrate or fuse with your natural jawbone as you heal, forming a strong and long-lasting foundation for your replacement teeth.
- After the healing process and the implant is bonded with the jawbone an abutment is placed simultaneously on top of the implant which serves as an anchor for the replacement tooth.
- Your dentist will then attach a crown, implant-supported bridge or dentures to the implant.
