Dental implants are artificial root devices that surgically inserted into your mouth to help permanent tooth prosthetics last a lifetime. These substitute roots are anchored into the bone beneath the gums where they fuse into the jaw. The dentist then mounts a crown atop the implant for a long-lasting, natural smile. Both dentists and patients often prefer dental implants because they offer the same function as natural teeth and help prevent bone atrophy in the jaw. Dental implants can replace a single missing or damaged tooth. They can also restore an entire smile.
Did You Know?
Approximately 30 million people live with no natural teeth in one or both jaws. However, an increasing number of dental patients are opting for dental implants for tooth replacement. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 3 million people currently have dental implants. That number that is rapidly growing by approximately 500,000 per year. Modern titanium implants were first developed in the 1950’s, but archeologists have determined that ancient Egyptians and Mayans were the first cultures to implant artificial teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If you have missing, broken or severely decayed teeth, you may be a good candidate for dental implants. You must, however, be in relatively good health. The only way to conclusively determine your eligibility for implants is to consult with the dentist. He or she will identify whether you have the sufficient bone support and healthy gums necessary to support the new tooth structure.
The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process that generally takes between 6 and 9 months to complete. It begins with a surgical procedure during which the dentist will place a titanium rod where the previous natural tooth root was previously located. The dentist then sutures the gums shut over the implant. You should then allow for several months to heal and start fusing to the surrounding bone. Given the nature of implant placement and its average procedure time (usually between 1 and 2 hours), you may be sedated or anesthetized. At the conclusion of the healing period, the patient can return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.
It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling, after a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications, hydrocodone or codeine. The dentist may advise you to eat only soft foods for approximately 2 weeks or until the surgical site heals.
Dental implants are titanium roots, that are replaced with in the jawbone to resemble a tooth or group of teeth. A screw is inserted through the gums and into the jawbone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prosthesis including crowns, dentures, and bridges. Today’s treatments are so natural looking, no one will know you had surgery. There’s approximately a 95% success rate for all implants. With modern advances in dentistry, some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.
