How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants, typically made of titanium, are used to replace the root of a missing tooth or teeth, providing a strong foundation for the placement of an artificial tooth or a set of teeth. These implants are essentially small, sturdy, titanium posts that act as the tooth’s root. The dental implant procedure involves the insertion of the implant screw into the jawbone, which fuses with the natural bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a durable base.

There are two types of dental implant systems: endosteal and subperiosteal implants.

Endosteal implants are placed in the jawbone, while subperiosteal implants are positioned under the gum but on or above the jawbone.

These implants are typically recommended to patients who do not possess sufficient healthy jawbone but who cannot or do not wish to undergo a bone augmentation procedure to rebuild it.

Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure, requiring extensive planning and follow-up. To determine whether someone is suitable for implants, one must assess their overall health, oral hygiene practices, and bone structure – successful implants offer long-term, effective solutions to tooth loss.

Dental Implants: What are they for?

Dentique Dental Spa is a dental clinic located in Perth, WA. We offer various kinds of dental procedures, including teeth whitening, dental implants, Invisalign, braces, and general dentistry.

Patients suffering from tooth loss due to decay, injury, or disease often require dental implants as a solution. Dental implants offer an efficient method for tooth replacement while still offering patients confidence when eating, speaking, or smiling.

Implant treatment typically involves a multi-step process:

• The first stage involves assessing the patient’s oral health, determining the extent of bone loss, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
• A dental surgeon then places the implants into the jaw bone. These implants act as artificial roots, providing a firm foundation for the replacement teeth.
• Once placed, the implants fuse with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. This provides stability and prevents future bone loss.
• After healing, an abutment is attached to the implant. This serves as a connector between the implant and the dental replacements.
• Finally, the replacement teeth are attached to the abutments, completing the implant treatment.

Who Are Qualified For Dental Implants

Interestingly, not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants, for they require sufficient bone density and a strong immune system to ensure successful osseointegration and healing. Dental implants, a form of cosmetic dentistry treatment, are an artificial replacement for a missing tooth or teeth. They offer an excellent option for patients seeking a permanent solution, providing the most natural-looking, comfortable, and functional results.

There are many requirements for getting dental implants.

Feasibility Of Dental Implant Procedure

The initial consultation is a crucial step in determining the feasibility of dental treatment involving implants. Firstly, you must have adequate bone structure. Having a firm jawbone is crucial because the new implant needs to fuse to the jawbone. If your jawbone is too brittle, it can be difficult for the dental implant to stay in place; therefore, dentists recommend having a jawbone mature enough for the procedure. Patients who are too young to have implants should seek an alternative treatment.

Health Condition For Dental Implant Surgery

Patients must be healthy enough to undergo the procedure. Certain conditions can make implant surgery more complicated, for example, if you have diabetes and are more prone to infections and inflammation. Controlling blood sugar levels is one of the keys to lowering gum disease risks and peri-implantitis risks as well as decreasing jawbone growth potential and thus lessening chances of successful implant surgery – but if missing several teeth remains an option then dental implants could still be viable options for you.

Financial Considerations For Implant Surgery

Furthermore, financing options are typically available to assist patients in managing the cost of this advanced dental procedure.

Dental implants can drastically enhance a patient’s quality of life, not only restoring their smile but also their confidence. Although dental implant eligibility requirements can be stringent, their benefits often make them worth consideration among eligible candidates.

Considerations Before Getting Dental Implants

While there are numerous benefits to dental implants, such as improved speech and comfort, there are also certain risks involved, including infection and potential damage to surrounding structures. These risks may be influenced by factors such as gum disease, the presence of adequate bone for the implant, and the chosen anesthesia options.

However, in a comprehensive dental consultation, your doctor will discuss these options and risks with you.

For those lacking adequate bone, a bone graft may be suggested. This procedure, while effective, extends healing time and may increase potential complications.

Here are key points to consider:

• Dental implants, as a replacement for bridgework tooth replacements, may offer a more natural feel and function.
• A bone graft may be necessary if there’s not enough natural bone.
• Bone healing after the implant procedure affects the overall success of the treatment.
• Gum disease may increase the risk of implant failure.
• Discussing anesthesia options with your doctor is crucial for comfort and anxiety management.

What Is The Process Of Getting Dental Implants

The process of getting dental implants involves several stages, including initial consultation, surgical insertion of the implant, and fitting of the artificial tooth, but it starts with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s oral and overall health.

Consultation and Assessment

During consultation appointments, dentists assess if the patient has sufficient bone tissue to support the implants. If not, a bone graft material might be used to augment the existing bone. This necessitates additional time for healing before the implant surgery can proceed.

The consultation period also includes an examination for periodontal disease, a severe form of gum disease that may contraindicate the procedure.

Treatment Planning

Based on the assessment, the dentist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will outline the number of implants needed, the type of implant (endosteal or subperiosteal), and the surgical approach.

Implant Placement

The next step involves surgically placing the dental implant(s) into the jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia, and the dentist will make an incision in the gum to access the bone. The implant is then securely anchored into the jawbone.

Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant is placed, a healing period is required for osseointegration to occur. Osseointegration is the process where the implant fuses with the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the prosthetic tooth. This can take several months.

Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This protrudes through the gum line and serves as the attachment point for the replacement tooth or crown.

An abutment is a piece that connects the metal post to the artificial tooth. While this piece may look like a fake tooth, it is not.

Impressions and Prosthesis Fabrication

Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and gums to create a custom-fit dental crown, bridge, or denture designed specifically to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. This prosthesis should fit snugly within its surroundings.

Prosthesis Attachment

When the prosthesis is ready, it is attached to the abutment. The dentist will ensure that it fits properly and functions like a natural tooth.

Follow-Up Visits

Once your dental implant procedure is completed, follow-up visits will be necessary to monitor its healing process, evaluate prosthesis fit, and make any necessary adjustments.

Consulting a dental professional like Dentique Dental Spa is essential to determining whether dental implants are right for you and creating an individualized treatment plan.

Replace Missing Teeth While Bringing Back Your Natural Smile

Dental implants offer an effective solution to tooth loss. While they pose certain risks, the potential benefits outweigh them significantly – including improved speech, comfort, and self-esteem.

Not everyone qualifies for dental implant procedures, as it requires an in-depth process. Therefore, careful consideration and consultation with a dental professional are vital in making an informed decision regarding dental implants.

Like with any surgical procedure, proper aftercare and ongoing maintenance will produce optimal results. Contact Dentique Dental Spat today to schedule a consultation to see if dental implants are right for you.

 

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