Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.
The implants themselves are titanium posts, which are inserted into the space where teeth are missing. They act as tooth root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jaw. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the bone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures during this healing time.
After the implant bonds to the bone your doctor will uncover the implants and attach healing caps on them. These healing caps protrude through the gums. Your dentist will then be able to attach the fixtures for the replacement teeth. The entire procedure usually takes four to six months.
Implants are a team effort between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist. The doctors at COMSA perform the actual implant surgery, and if necessary, the initial tooth extractions and bone grafting. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each crown attaches to its own implant. Multiple tooth prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace multiple missing teeth. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball and socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and only removable by the dentist. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of prosthesis is recommended.
“Implants are a team effort between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist. ”
If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If you mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.
The majority of dental implants and bone grafting procedures can be performed in the office under local anesthesia.
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.