Dental Implants Overview
Dental Implants; The mere mention of the words can strike fear in individuals who have a propensity for “avoiding” the dentist at all costs. So why are some people so scared of these dental contraptions? Are they really that bad?
Dental implants are essentially medical-grade screws often crafted from titanium—other materials can be used, but titanium is the most popular choice of metal implant. This makes them no different from the screws used to keep metal plates and broken bones together during surgery. In the world of dentistry, these titanium implants are surgically inserted into the upper or lower jawbone right below the gum line, acting as artificial anchors for replacement teeth. The implants heal and fuse together with the jawbone—in a process called Osseointegration—for the next three to six months.
Understanding the Importance of Socket Bone Grafts for Dental Implants
A socket bone graft preserves and enhances jawbone structure after tooth extraction, preventing bone loss that can complicate future dental procedures, especially implant placement. Dentists or oral surgeons use synthetic or natural bone graft material to create a scaffold in the empty socket, promoting natural bone regeneration. This procedure aims to maintain jawbone contours, ensuring a stable foundation for successful and aesthetically pleasing dental implant placement, enhancing long-term outcomes for tooth replacement.
More About Dental Implants
Frequently Asked Questions
The timeline varies, but the entire dental implant process usually takes several months. It includes healing and integration time for the implant in the jawbone, fabrication of the replacement tooth, and final placement.
While many individuals can benefit from dental implants, candidacy depends on factors such as overall health, jawbone density, and oral hygiene. A thorough examination by one of our dentists or oral surgeons will determine eligibility.
The implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort. Patients may experience mild soreness after the surgery, but it can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.
Yes, dental implants can be used to replace single teeth, multiple teeth, or even entire arches. Implant-supported bridges and dentures offer stable and natural-looking solutions for patients with multiple missing teeth.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and a healthy lifestyle contribute to the longevity of implants.
