A dental implant is a dental prosthesis that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Implants are made up of three parts: the implant, and attachment, and the restoration. The implant is essentially an artificial tooth root and is often fabricated with titanium. Dental implants are one of the best ways to restore missing teeth and are a popular choice for both dentists and patients.
Dental implants are one of the more expensive restoration options but in the long run, are often more cost effective. Their stability, comfort, and natural appearance make them worth the expense for many patients though not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. For patients who are otherwise healthy and can withstand the surgery and extensive healing time, dental implants are the way to go. Other patients may need to consider more traditional alternative frustrations.
The most popular material used to make dental implants is titanium, which has great biocompatibility, enabling it to easily integrate with the jawbone and is resistant to corrosion. Titanium is non-toxic and non-allergenic, and even though it is a metal, allergies to titanium are extremely rare. Some patients may prefer zirconia for medical reasons or personal preference.
The actual implant is a titanium post which is screwed directly into the jaw bone. A small portion is left protruding through the gum tissue and allows the abutment to be attached to the implant, acting as a joint between the implant and the restoration. The implant restoration is the fake tooth part that you can see. It is affixed to the implant and can be an individual crown, a multiple tooth bridge, or an implant-supported denture.
Titanium Dental Implants Procedure
If you are interested in dental implants, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist for an evaluation which will include x-rays of the area to be treated. These x-rays will allow the doctor to analyze your bone level to make sure your implant is successful. If they find that you do not have enough bone structure, they may advise that you have a bone graft to prepare the area to receive the implant. This allows your doctor to ensure that the implant will be able to integrate with the bone tissue.
The surgery for implant placement is relatively simple and is performed under local anesthetic, so you will be numb but not knocked out. Before they begin, they will administer local anesthetic to numb the area being treated and then make a small incision in the gum tissue. They will then drill a small hole into your jawbone and screw the implant into place. A temporary abutment, or healing cap, is attached to the implant to protect it from damage and infection as you heal.
Typically, your dentist will have fabricated an essix appliance for you to wear while your implant heals. This is a plastic tray that has composite material in the space where your tooth is missing. The essix not only gives you the appearance of a tooth, but also helps to protect the implant while it heals. The overall healing time for implant surgery can be up to six months, depending on how well your implant integrates with the jawbone.
If you think dental implants are the best treatment option for you, it is important to speak with your dentist to make sure you understand the process and timeframe of having titanium dental implants placed.
