Implant Treatment
Dental implants are biocompatible materials, which are applied in the condition of missing teeth in the jaws, made out of titanium or zirconium that imitate the tooth root. Dental implants are painlessly placed in the jaw bones in sterile conditions, under local anesthesia. Implants are used in the making of the fixed denture and in order to become a support for removable dentures.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. The implant consists of a titanium post or fixture inserted into the jawbone on top of which a crown, a fixed bridge, and a partial or full denture are attached. Once the implant integrates into the bone, a structure called an abutment is connected to the implant and then the artificial tooth/teeth are attached. Therefore, there are 3 parts to an artificial tooth: the dental implant itself, the abutment, and the artificial tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- They are durable
- They prevent bone loss
- They look like natural teeth
- They keep adjacent teeth stable
- They restore the cosmetic appearance of the patient’s face
- They function like natural teeth when speaking and chewing
- They improve overall life quality
- They can last a lifetime
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
- Patients who have one or more missing teeth
- Patients with healthy teeth and gums
- Patients who are willing to observe good oral health
- Patients who have an adequate bone density
- Patients who have a fully grown jawbone
- Patients who don’t have a medical condition that would affect bone healing
- Patients who don’t smoke or are willing to quit
Is Getting a Dental Implant Painful?
While discomfort can vary between people, most individuals report getting their dental implant was much less uncomfortable than they anticipated it to be. During the surgical dental implant procedure, the dentist will give patients an anesthetic, so they should feel minimal discomfort if any.
How Long Does It Take for Dental Implants to Heal?
The average implant process occurs in multiple steps. You may require more than one healing stage. So, there’s a varied healing period, depending on your health, how many teeth you need replacing, and other factors. However, the healing process generally takes anywhere from six to 12 weeks.