In the current scenario, dental implants have risen to become the top choice for the replacement of missing teeth among adults. Dental implants are simply synthetic posts that your dentist surgically places in your gums. Dental crowns can then be mounted on these posts, which allows patients to retain their natural teeth function.
Dental implants are often seen as costly procedures that do not justify their use. However, the benefits of dental implants far outweigh their risks and the success rate of implants has risen to almost 98% in most dental practices.
Types of Dental Implants:
The first successful dental implant was made of titanium, which is still one of the most commonly used metals in the field. There are now ceramic implants available as well that have proven to be just as successful in the long-term. Depending on your bone structure, your dentist may advise you to get one of the following two types of dental implants:
Endosteal Implants
This is the most commonly used type of dental implant. It comes in various forms like cylinders, plates or screws that are surgically placed directly into the patient’s jawbone. One implant can support one or more prosthetic dental crowns that will function like natural teeth in the mouth. Having good bone structure with adequate height and width is the most important criteria for this type of dental implant. They are also known as root-form implants and are usually used as better alternatives to dentures or bridges.
Subperiosteal Implants
These types of dental implants are placed on top of the jawbone underneath the gums, instead of being drilled into the bone. Patients who do not have the adequate bone structure to support the implant are advised to get subperiosteal implants. The metal framework of the implant is supported by posts that protrude out through the gums inside the mouth. Patients who have low bone height and are unable to wear conventional dentures can benefit greatly from these implants.
What to Expect in a Dental Implant Procedure?
During your first consultation, your dentist will examine you to ensure whether you are a good candidate to receive a dental implant. This includes knowing your age and medical history and examining your intraoral tissues. Detailed imaging techniques are used to assess bone structure and viability. The surgical procedure is done next under local anaesthesia; the procedure includes the placement of one or more dental implants in your gums, depending on the number of missing teeth you have. This is followed by a waiting period of about 4-6 months, which allows for osseointegration between the implant and the surrounding bone structure.
Once the implant has successfully integrated itself with the surrounding bone, an abutment is connected to the implant that will eventually hold the dental crown or denture. After taking an impression, the crown is fabricated and can be cemented onto the abutment.
Visit LeSueur Family Dental to know more about whether dental implants are the right choice for you. Get in touch with our expert team members who are readily available to answer all your queries.
