Book An Appointment
What are Dental Implants?
With advancements in healthcare, people are now living longer than ever before. While maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can help preserve our natural smiles, there are instances where our teeth may not be able to keep up. Whether it's due to injury or disease, the loss of a tooth (or multiple teeth) can have a significant impact on both our smile and oral health. This is where dental implants come into play.
A dental implant is essentially an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It is typically shaped like a post and is commonly made of titanium, a material often used in replacement hips and knees. Titanium is well-suited for pairing with human bone, ensuring a strong and durable foundation for the implant.
Once the implant is securely in place, a replacement tooth is attached to the post. This replacement tooth can either be permanently fixed or removable. Permanent teeth offer greater stability and provide a more natural feel compared to removable options.
To be an ideal candidate for dental implants, it is recommended to be a non-smoker with good oral health. This includes having a sufficient amount of bone in the jaw to support the implant and healthy gums with no signs of gum disease. By meeting these criteria, individuals can benefit from the rejuvenating effects of dental implants, restoring both their smile and oral health.
Anterior Implant Tooth in a Day Procedure
Single Implant Posterior
Bridge Versus an Implant
SINGLE OR MULTIPLE IMPLANTS
Implants offer great versatility when it comes to tooth replacement options. For individuals who are missing a single tooth, a single implant along with a replacement tooth can effectively restore their smile. In cases where multiple teeth are missing consecutively, a few strategically positioned implants can provide support for a permanent bridge, which consists of a set of replacement teeth.
In situations where all teeth have been lost, implants can be used to permanently secure a full bridge or full denture in the mouth. By strategically placing a sufficient number of implants, individuals can enjoy the benefits of a fixed and stable dental restoration.
Benefits of Dental Implants Compared to Dentures or Bridges
Traditional bridges and dentures are not securely attached to the bone, which can result in instability. This lack of stability can make it challenging to eat or smile confidently.
Implants, on the other hand, offer a more natural appearance and function. They closely resemble normal teeth and provide a stronger biting force. Unlike bridges, implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, ensuring that the health of your natural teeth remains uncompromised.
Furthermore, bridges are typically expected to last only seven to ten years, and even less if root canals are involved. In contrast, implants have a significantly longer lifespan and can often last a lifetime.