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

A single anterior implant provides a quick solution for replacing a missing front tooth. The procedure involves placing a dental implant in the jawbone and attaching a temporary crown on the same day. This allows patients to leave the dental office with a functional replacement tooth. The method restores aesthetics and function without disrupting daily activities. Patients receive a natural-looking temporary crown while the implant integrates with the bone, preparing for a permanent crown in the future. This efficient process rejuvenates smiles and restores confidence.

Single Implant Posterior

Replacing a tooth can be achieved through a dental implant, which restores the mouth's optimal function by substituting the root structure of the missing tooth. This helps prevent further complications that may arise if the missing tooth is left untreated. The process usually involves multiple appointments. Firstly, the site is prepared for the dental implant placement. Then, the implant body is inserted into the bone along with a healing cap. The site is allowed to heal, providing a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Your doctor will monitor the healing process and inform you when the tooth is ready for the final restoration.

Bridge Versus an Implant

In this video, we explore dental restorations, specifically bridges and dental implants as options for replacing missing teeth. We discuss the benefits, drawbacks, and aesthetic aspects of each method. We also address potential challenges and considerations. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge to make an informed decision that aligns with your oral health goals. Sit back, relax, and let us guide you through this enlightening journey of dental restoration options.

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.

Aftercare following treatment

Maintain your replacement teeth just like you would your natural teeth. They need the same daily brushing and flossing routine, as well as regular checkups. Similar to your natural teeth, the more attention and care you give to your replacements, the longer they will stay in good condition.

Discover if you meet the requirements for Modern Dental Smiles dental implants in under 2 minutes.