All the Facts About Dental Implants
Dental implants have taken modern dentistry by storm and research shows that they are becoming increasingly popular year on year, but what exactly are dental implants, how do they work and what is so good about them?
About dental implants
Dental implants are small titanium devices used to replace the root of a missing tooth. They are placed inside small openings in the jaw bone and their role is take on the responsibilities of the root. Titanium is a biocompatible material, which means that the implant is able to integrate into the jaw bone. This process is called osseointegration and it enables the implant to provide the same level of stability as a healthy root. Once the process is complete, the head of the implant is then connected to a restoration, which replaces the visible part of the tooth.
What’s so great about implants?
One of the main advantages of dental implants is their versatility. Implants are compatible with a range of new restorations designed to replace the crown part of the tooth. Implants can be fitted to dentures, dental bridges and crowns and this means they can be considered by patients of all ages with single or multiple missing teeth.
Implants are also a long-term option for tooth loss and they last a lot longer than dentures and bridges. They also provide exceptional standards of functionality and natural aesthetics. Implant treatment can also help to reduce the risk of bone loss.
Are implants suitable for everyone?
Implant treatment is a viable option for a large proportion of patients with missing teeth, however there may be some circumstances when this kind of treatment is not the best option. Implants are not usually recommended for heavy smokers, as smoking slows the healing process and may increase the risk of implant failure. Implants may not be recommended for patients who have very weak bone tissue in the jaw, but it is possible to carry out bone grafting to strengthen the bone, so treatment may not be ruled out completely.
To find out more about implant treatment and see if you are a good candidate for innovative implants, call now and arrange a consultation.
