Millions of Americans are discovering the benefits of dental implants. Thanks to these devices, one does not have to suffer from poor self-esteem for having missing teeth.
Dental implants are an excellent restorative option for missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone.
Over several months, the bone surrounding the implant grows, holding it securely in place. As a result, dental implants offer a more natural-looking alternative to other conventional solutions to missing teeth, such as dentures and dental bridges.
The Truth About Types Of Dental Implants
There are two types of dental implants:
- Endosteal (in the bone).
Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant. Resembling small screws, they are surgically inserted deep into the jawbone as a replacement for tooth roots. Titanium is commonly used to make dental implants.
- Subperiosteal (on the bone).
Patients need enough bone mass in their jaw to support the titanium rod and the attached crown. When an insufficient healthy jawbone is available to support the implant, the subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but not connected to the jawbone.
It’s important to remember that not all Dentists In Southampton perform dental implants. However, the team at our dental office is always on hand to explain to you the benefits of dental implants and how they can change your life.
Complete Essentials Of Dental Implants You Should Know
Dental implant procedures require multiple steps over around three to nine months. During this period, an individual may need help from numerous dental specialists, including an oral surgeon or a periodontist.
The number of teeth you wish to replace will also determine the type and scope of the procedure.
- Evaluation.
The first step will be to evaluate your teeth, gums, and jawbone. During this initial consultation, it is determined if the jawbone is healthy to maintain the implant.
The gums must be free from any periodontal diseases too. A bone graft is suggested if the jawbone is too weak or soft. Dental implant surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. It may be done under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. Your specialist will inform you well ahead of time which type of anesthesia you will be administered.
- Placement of the Implant.
If you have an Endosteal implant, your oral surgeon will cut the gum, exposing the jawbone. Holes are then drilled deep into the bone, where the implant post will be inserted. If you choose or insist, a removable denture will be placed over the hole for aesthetic purposes until the permanent tooth can be attached to the implant.
If you choose a subperiosteal implant, your jawbone won’t be drilled. Instead, the subperiosteal implants will be placed under the gum and not attached to the jawbone.
- Osseointegration.
After the dental implant has been placed, it takes anywhere from two to six months before enough new bone growth occurs around the screw.
Osseointegration means combining with the bone. It is the development of the structural link between the bone and the implant. The natural jaw bone will strengthen and grow around the dental implant during this process.
- Abutment Placement.
Abutments connect the replacement tooth to the dental implant. An abutment can be added during the initial procedure or sometime later.
Later, when adding the abutment, the surgeon might have to make an incision if gum tissue has grown over the implant. Usually, a healing cap is placed over the implant to protect it and prevent tissue from growing over it.
The healing cap is removed, leaving the abutment to be screwed onto the implant. The gums will take some weeks to heal after the abutment placement.
- Crown Placement.
Once gums have healed, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth so that your permanent replacement teeth are made to fit. These can be removable or permanently fixed.
This Is Urgent Common Causes Of Dental Implant Failure
Dental implants can be exceptionally successful if done correctly. Dental implant failures are rare, but when they occur, they can cause severe discomfort and lead to further complications.
Common signs of dental implant failure are:
- Severe pain or discomfort.
- Swelling or inflammation of the gums.
- The implant becomes loose and moves in the mouth.
Some factors that cause a dental implant to fail include:
- Poorly Taken Teeth Impressions.
If teeth impressions taken by your dentist are not precise, the replacement teeth may not fit. In addition, a subtle mistake can lead to a gap between the crown and the gums, which would be enough to compromise the teeth’ look and health.
- Cement Leakage.
If the implant cannot merge with the bone, it can result in coming loose or even falling off.
- Peri-Implantitis.
Peri-Implantitis is one of the leading causes of dental implant failure. It occurs when a foreign body is placed in the oral cavity. As a result, both the gums and the bone surrounding the implant can suffer damage. This condition can be treated but can cause the implant to be replaced.
- Failed Osseointegration.
If the implant cannot merge with the bone, it can result in coming loose or even falling off.
- Allergic Reaction.
The dental implants and other materials used for implantation may cause localized reactions. The dentist should ensure that they use only the best materials and that the patient has also been tested for allergies.
Reasons On How Successful Is A Dental Implantation?
Dental implants are the closest one can get to natural-looking teeth. No other restoration process in dentistry can achieve that. Studies have revealed that dental implants have a success rate of over 95%.
Dental implant procedures stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss which is possible after losing teeth. Dental implants also prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
If you are looking for dental implantation, Contact Us to schedule a consultation. We have served the Bucks County community for a long time and are excited to help you restore your smile and dental health. We can design dental implants to blend perfectly with the rest of your teeth.