A dental implant is a post that is surgically screwed directly into the jawbone and is used to support a dental prosthesis which can replace one or more missing teeth. An implant is essentially an artificial tooth root so it has the added benefit of stimulating bone regeneration.
Bone regeneration is important to the overall well being of the jaw and our tooth roots basically have a little work out when we speak and chew, thereby stimulating bone growth. When a tooth is missing, the bone is not being stimulated, leading to bone deterioration in the area. Without treatment, it can cause a domino effect of further bone loss, more tooth mobility, additional tooth loss, and so on.
As the bone continues to deteriorate, patients may notice changes in facial structure as well. This type of deterioration is common with traditional restorations such as dental bridges and dentures that sit on top of the gums.
Titanium vs Ceramic
Dental implants can be fabricated with either titanium or ceramic and can support a number of dental prosthesis from a single implant crown to a full denture on one or both arches. Titanium implants are composed of three pieces: the implant, an abutment, and the restoration. Ceramic implants are two pieces, the implant and abutment are one, and the restoration.
Titanium implants have been in use since the 1960s and are generally easier to place than ceramic implants. Titanium implants are more common with most dentists because they are incredibly strong and natural-looking.
Titanium implants have a success rate between 95% and 97% with a lifespan of at least 20 years but with proper care and maintenance, can easily last a lifetime. The restoration may become damaged or worn overtime, but that simply requires replacement of just the restoration.
Ceramic implants have been used in the US since about 2009 but longer in Europe. Ceramic implants are more difficult to place because they are one piece and require a higher level of skill from your implant doctor. Ceramic implants can be a great alternative for patients who suffer from metal allergies though it is not as strong as titanium so the implant itself can be at higher risk of cracks and fractures.
Fortunately, ceramic implants are easier to repair than titanium. One major benefit of ceramic implants is that they remain more natural-looking as they age since there are no metal parts. As we age, gum thinning and recession is natural to some extent and that can leave a titanium implant at risk showing at the gumline. We do not know their lifespan since they have not been in use as long as titanium.
A periodontist or oral surgeon is the dental professional that places dental implants. After surgical placement, the implant is covered with a temporary abutment, or healing cap, and left to heal for up to six months. During this time, the implant will integrate with your jaw bone to form a strong fusion, called osseointegration. This bond will serve as the foundation for your dental prosthesis. Once it is fully healed and integrated, your dentist will restore the implant with a permanent abutment and implant crown or other dental prosthesis. If you need to have one or more teeth replaced, speak with your dentist to see if you are a candidate for dental implants.