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Dental Implants
What is an implant?
A dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, or facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor. Here are the main components and stages of a dental implant:
Implant Fixture: This is the actual implant, usually made of titanium, that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It acts as the root of the tooth.
Abutment: This component connects the implant fixture to the dental prosthesis. It can be made of titanium, gold, or porcelain. Crown or
Prosthesis: This is the visible part of the tooth, made to match the natural teeth, and is attached to the abutment.
Procedure:
Initial Evaluation: This involves dental examinations, X-rays, and sometimes CT scans to assess the health of the jawbone and plan the implant procedure.
Surgical Placement: The implant fixture is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This is often done under local anesthesia.
Osseointegration: Over several months, the jawbone grows around the implant, firmly anchoring it in place. This process is known as osseointegration.
Abutment Placement: Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant fixture.
Crown Placement: Finally, the custom-made crown is attached to the abutment.
Benefits of Dental Implants:
Durability: Implants are long-lasting and can often last a lifetime with proper care.
Aesthetics: They look and feel like natural teeth.
Functionality: Implants restore full chewing power, similar to natural teeth. Bone
Health: They help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur after losing teeth.
Convenience: Unlike dentures, implants do not need to be removed for cleaning.
Considerations:
Bone Density: Sufficient bone density is required to support the implant.
Health Status: Patients should be in good overall health and have healthy gums.
Cost: Implants can be more expensive than other dental restoration options.
Healing Time: The process can take several months, depending on the patient’s healing and the integration of the implant with the jawbone.
Dental implants are a highly effective and increasingly popular solution for tooth replacement due to their strength, durability, and natural appearance.
Alternative Techniques for Dental Implants
In addition to the typical multi-step dental implant surgery, your dental implant dentist may recommend various alternative treatment choices based on the condition of your jawbone and your unique requirements. Among the possibilities are:
Patients with low bone density may require a bone graft before getting dental implants. If your jawbone is not strong enough to support dental implants, there are numerous methods that may be utilised to repair bone, restore your natural jawline, and offer a solid foundation for implant-supported teeth. These are some examples:
Bone Augmentation
This entails rebuilding or growing bone in your jaw when it is otherwise incapable of supporting implants. According to research, employing bone supplements and growth elements to reinforce the bone yields the greatest outcomes.
Sinus Lift
This procedure, also known as sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, involves the addition of bone below the sinus in situations where native bone has deteriorated owing to missing upper back teeth.
Ridge Expansion
If your jaw is too narrow to accommodate dental implants, bone graft material may be added to a little ridge or gap produced at the top of your jaw.
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