Implant Dentistry
Dental Implant with Crown
There are several types of dental restorations that include crowns, bridges, partials, and dentures. Each restoration has distinct advantages and disadvantages; most noteworthy is that none of these restorations are permanent. At some point, crowns, bridges, partials, and dentures will have to be remade due to wear, changes due to age, and other factors.
With the goal of creating a permanent and more lifelike restoration, modern dentistry has produced a technology known as the dental implant. What is unique about the dental implant is that it is an artificial tooth root, made out of titanium, to which various restorations can be attached. The implant (which is a titanium post) is planted into the jawbone surgically, fuses with the bone in the jaw, and becomes permanent.
Dental implants can support individual teeth, snap-in dentures, and bridges.
Benefits
Dental implants may be the best option when bridges or dentures are uncomfortable or not possible due to soreness or other issues.
Since dental implants fuse with bone, they become permanent and can feel like and look like natural teeth. Since nearby teeth are not reduced or altered in order to support implants (unlike traditional bridges), the remaining teeth in the mouth remain intact. This improves long-term oral health.
Implants can improve physical appearance, speech, and comfort. Unlike dentures, they do not slip and do not have the discomfort that many experience with removable dentures.
Known for their durability, implants may last a lifetime.
Requirements
Patients will be referred to an oral surgeon for the actual implant procedure and must be in good health. They must have sufficient bone structure and gum tissue in order for an implant to be successful. Treatment also requires patients to commit to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure long-term success.