Dental Implants

Dental implants help in replacement of the tooth roots and help in filling up the unwanted gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental implants are made of metal called titanium and work as a strong foundation for the artificial teeth. These are surgically implanted into the jaw bone and works like an anchor for the artificial teeth. The procedure of dental implantation is referred to as osseointegration. Dental implants look very natural and are also referred to as the third set of teeth. They success rate of dental implants is very high as they work much like the real ones. It not improves the chewing ability of the person but also enhances the appearance and speech of the person considerably.

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be classified into two categories:

• Endosteal (in the bone): This is the most common type of dental implant is used for patients with bridges or removable dentures. The various types include screws, cylinders or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth.
• Subperiosteal (on the bone): This type of dental implant is ideal for patients who are unable to wear dentures and who have minimal bone height. The implants are placed on top of the jaw, with the metal framework's posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthesis.

Reasons for Dental Implants

• Help to fill up the gaps caused by missing teeth
• Ideal for people with weak dentures
• Permanently fixed, no chance of slipping
• Does not affect the adjoining teeth in anyway
• Eliminate the need of dental bridges

Advantages of Dental Implants

• Dental implants look and function just like the real ones
• Dental implants integrate into jawbone permanently
• Dental implants help you to eat and speak properly
• Dental implants are the option for tooth replacement
• Dental implants do not require tooth-supported bridge
• Dental implants help in improving oral hygiene
• Durability is the essence of dental implants
• Convenience is the biggest benefit as they are permanent

Dental Implants Treatment

Dental implant is a procedure that shows successful results with the team effort of the patient, dentist and the periodontist. The dentist and preriodonist will perform a thorough dental check up to determine where the implants need to be placed. According to the dental condition and the type of dental implant the patient a treatment plan is formulated. Dental implants involve a small operation which is performed by giving the patient local anesthetic. During this operation the gum is cut and lifted for the implantation. A small hole is made in the jawbone where the titanium implant is fitted. It may take around 3 to 6 months to be comfortable with the dental implants.