Dental implants are the newest technology in cosmetic dentistry and have provided an excellent alternative to the more traditional dentures. Simply put, a dental implant is an artificial tooth which is inserted into your jaw by the dentist to replace a missing or damaged tooth. They are the perfect option for those people who have lost a tooth in an accident, due to infection of the gums or any other reason.
Dental implants today are made of commercial titanium and typically consist of a titanium screw (which is inserted into the jaw bone). Custom made teeth are then fixed onto these titanium frames. This basic anatomy is the same for all kinds of dental implants used by dentists currently.
The two main types of dental implants are Endosteal and Subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are attached in the bone and are the most commonly used type of implant. These are usually used for patients with removable dentures or bridges. Subperiostal implants are placed on top of the jaw. The metal posts go through the gums instead of bone. This type is used for patients with a lacking bone structure or those who can’t wear conventional dentures.
Regardless of what kind of dental implant the patient gets, the result is brand new teeth that look and feel natural. Additionally, getting implants means not sacrificing adjacent teeth as well as protecting bone loss and gum recession, something not possible with dentures or bridges. Dental implants are also a vast improvement on dentures which tend to get loose and need to be taken off every night etc. Finally, dental implants are a one time investment and can last a lifetime without damage, unlike other alternatives.
It is because of these advantages that more and more people are choosing to get dental implants. Other reasons to get dental implants is if you’ve lost a tooth in an accident or due to some infection, but the bone structure is healthy and vital, or if you want a cosmetically enhanced smile, with perfect and natural looking teeth.
In order to get dental implants, the first step is to consult a qualified and trained professional. Usually an oral surgeon, periodontist or orthodontist are qualified to use dental implants. The orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth and x-rays of your jaw bones in order to custom make an implant for you. The next step is to insert the titanium frame of the implant into your jawbone. Once this is done through oral surgery, the bone is allowed to heal and fuse with the implant. This process can take anywhere from 4-6 months, depending on individual constitution and healing. Once the implants are firmly fixed, the second step takes place – screwing on or fixing the artificial teeth onto the frame.
Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing damaged, decayed or missing teeth. You can choose to get a single or multiple implants, all depending on your general health and jaw bone condition. However many you get, dental implants serve to boost your confidence and improve the quality of your life.