Dental Implants
Crowns and conventional bridges
or dentures may not be your only
options when replacing missing
teeth. For some people, dental
implants offer a smile that
looks and feels very natural.
Surgically placed below the gums
over a series of appointments,
implants fuse to the jawbone and
serve as a base for individual
replacement teeth, bridges or a
denture.
Implants offer stability because
they fuse to your bone.
Integration of the implants into
your jaw also helps your
replacement teeth feel more
natural and some people also
find the secure fit more
comfortable than conventional
substitutes.
Candidates for dental implants
need to have healthy gums and
adequate bone to support the
implant. A thorough evaluation
by your dentist will help
determine whether you are a good
candidate for dental implants.
What is involved in placing
implants?
First, surgery is performed to
place the anchor. Surgery can
take up to several hours, and up
to six months may be required
for the bone to grow around the
anchor and firmly hold it in
place. Some implants require a
second surgery in which a post
is attached to connect the
anchor to the replacement teeth.
With other implants, the anchor
and post are already attached
and are placed at the same time.
After the gums have had several
weeks to heal, the next step is
begun. The artificial teeth are
made and fitted to the post
portion of the anchor. Because
several fittings may be
required, this step can take one
to two months to complete.
Implant surgery can be done
either in a dental office or in
a hospital, depending upon a
number of factors. A local or
general anesthetic may be used.
Usually pain medications and,
when necessary, antibiotics are
prescribed. Your dentist will
give you instructions on diet
and oral hygiene.
Is there another way I can
have a tooth replaced other than
a bridge?
Yes. Dental implants can provide
artificial teeth that look
natural and feel secure. Dental
implants can also be used to
attach full or partial dentures.
Implants, however, are not an
option for everyone. Because
implants require surgery,
patients must be in good health,
have healthy gums, have adequate
bone to support the implant and
be committed to meticulous oral
hygiene and regular dental
visits. If you are considering
implants, a thorough evaluation
by your dentist will help
determine if you would be a good
candidate.
