Dental Implants are an amazing piece of technology, in fact, Titanium technology! They replicate the real tooth with a new Titanium root, that is placed in the patient’s jaw bone and the result is not only fabulous-looking teeth but extremely functional and long-lasting. An implant is surgically positioned into the jaw bone and a replacement tooth is mounted on it. An implant is so real that one cannot even differentiate between a real tooth and an implant and unlike a denture; it is fixed to the gums…so no scare of losing teeth, here and there!!! Plus, unlike bridges, they are not anchored to other teeth, so one gets better oral hygiene.
Do I need an implant?
Anyone who has lost a tooth or several teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason, is a good candidate for an implant. It is safe, long-lasting, and has aesthetic benefits too. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw and is the best option for people who have otherwise strong gums and need a tooth or two replaced!
Adequate bone height in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of any periodontal disease.
Types of implants …
Endosteal (in the bone implant ): In this type of implant the Titanium post is screwed right into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures.
Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework’s posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthesis. These types of implants are used for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and who have minimal bone height.
Ridge Modification: Some patients with deformities in the upper or lower jaw might need, what is called, “ Ridge Modification”. The defect is then filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve the appearance and increase your chances for successful dental implants that can last for years without any complication or decay.
How is it implanted?….
This procedure is simple and requires a couple of sittings. It starts with the evaluation of your jaw bone and whether it has enough space for a titanium bolt implant and ends with an experienced periodontist placing the artificial tooth mount on the bolt/screw head.
All patients have different bone structures and require a customized treatment plan as per their condition.
Implant care is simple….
Just like normal dental care, dental implants require at home good oral cleaning, brushing, and flossing to prevent plaque deposits. Apart from brushing and flossing and monthly visits to a dentist for deep cleaning, implants do not need any special care. Treat them just like your own teeth!
