IMPLANT DENTISTRY
Do you have missing teeth? A dental implant is an artificial tooth root usually made of surgical-grade titanium. This is the most modern and closest replacement for natural tooth.
Missing teeth may cause various problems. As our mouth is a chewing system a missing tooth may be like a missing wheel and loss of support of the existing teeth. It also can make you feel insecure or self-conscious.
There are different ways to replace a tooth or teeth and one good solution is to place implants.
NATURAL-LOOKING TOOTH REPLACEMENT
It is comforting to know that missing teeth can be replaced in various functional and appealing ways. A tooth replacement with a dental implant is a natural-looking, long-term solution.
This small screw-like device is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw. After the bone has grown around the dental implant, implants can hold a crown, bridge or a denture just like roots hold natural teeth in place. Under proper conditions these restorations are very similar to natural teeth. The material of the implant usually doesn,t stimulate foreign body reaction in the patient and the bone bonds to its surface. Dental implants are extremely cost effective as they have a 98% success rate. In addition, implants can help preserve shape of the face, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
If you are having only one tooth replaced, only one dental implant will be placed but for replacing all teeth in one jaw 6 or 8 dental implants are normally enough. Over dentures can be held in place with as few as 4 implants in some cases.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANT THERAPY?
Each year, hundreds of thousands of people all around the world benefit from dental implant therapy. According to The American Academy of Periodontology, the ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the dental implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free from periodontal disease. Your dentist will evaluate various factors to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. These factors may include certain health conditions (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes), risk factors (e.g., smoking) or low density jawbone. These types of conditions may not rule out dental implants, but must be taken into consideration to be sure they will not compromise successful implant therapy.
DENTAL IMPLANT STEPS
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A hole is prepared in the jaw bone in stages,
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An dental implant is fitted,
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When the false teeth has healed (about 3 to 4 months), it is exposed and a healing abutment is placed,
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When the gum is formed (2 weeks) an abutment is inserted,
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A dental crown is then fitted to the abutment.
Temporary restorations can be made between the steps for cosmetic purposes.
Most healthy individuals that maintain a good oral hygiene program are suitable candidates for dental implants. The treatment is so low-risk that implants can be placed in patients aged 70, 80 or even 90 years provided that they have a sufficient quantity and quality of bone tissue available. There is no upper age limit!
Surgery is made under local anesthesia so you will not feel any pain at the time, but you may feel some discomfort during the week following the surgery and swelling is also possible. We supply painkillers post operatively. As the result you will be able to smile, chew, speak again with comfort and confidence.
It is essential that you continue to see your own dentist and your hygienist for regular check-ups. Clinical studies have shown that a yearly review with your implantologist is best for the longevity of your dental implants. Some patients need more detailed maintenance; this will be explained prior the commencement of your treatment. With appropriate care dental implants can last a lifetime.