This is the latest procedure to replace a missing tooth or teeth without disturbing the teeth next to the space. It is also a widely accepted method to stabilize dentures that do not sit very well and are difficult to adjust to. Once the implant has fused with the bone it can last indefinitely as long as proper hygiene and recall appointments with the dentist are maintained. As with any other complex dental work, treatment planning is the most crucial of all aspects of implant dentistry, which should involve medical evaluation, x rays photographs, gum analysis, study models and sometimes CAT Scans of the jaw.

Anybody can have an implant as long as they are healthy and hearty and have a desire to live life to the fullest.

By definition, a dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed in the jaw for the purpose of holding a replacement tooth or bridge. Gum disease, injury, or some other reason may cause a person to lose tooth/teeth. Dental implants are a good option for such people.

Benefits of Implants

Dental implants have a natural look and feel, just like one’s natural teeth. They are the ideal solution for you, if:

• You have missing teeth and need to hide them by not smiling openly
• You have difficulty in chewing
• You feel insecure about your dentures
• You require lasting replacement of your natural teeth

Options in Implants

You can choose to have different implant options like:

• Having one or more teeth replaced without affecting neighboring teeth
• Supporting a bridge and ridding of the need for a removable partial denture
• Supporting your dentures with greater comfort and security

Implant Types

Currently, two main types of dental implants are in common use: Endosteal and Subperiosteal.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal, or in-the-bone, implants are the most commonly used today and are especially useful for people with removable dentures or bridges. Each endosteal implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. Different types of endosteal implants include screws, cylinders, or blades that are surgically placed into the jawbone.

Subperiosteal, or on the bone, implants hold the prosthetic teeth by being placed on top of the jaw. The metal framework’s posts, used for placing the implants, protrude through the gums. Subperiosteal implants are more recommended for people who cannot wear conventional dentures and have a minimal bone height.

Implants vs. Traditional Bridgework

Some of the advantages of dental implants that precede those offered by bride or dentures are listed here:

• Dental implants are more tooth-saving and do not need the support from neighboring teeth.
• Their look and feel is more natural.
• They integrate into the bone structure, preventing bone loss and gum recession.
• More of the natural teeth remain untouched and hence better oral health.
• Implants do not give the disturbing clicks and wobbles associated with dentures.
• These have a much higher success rate than traditional bridge and dentures.

The Process of Implant Treatment

While a number of considerations are to be taken into account, dental implant treatment includes the following processes:

Single Tooth Replacement: one implant and a crown replace a single, missing natural tooth and its root.

Replacement of Several Teeth: Several teeth can be replaced by implant-supported full bridge/denture.

Replacement of All Teeth: An implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace all missing teeth along with some of the roots.

Augmentation of the Sinus: Dental implants have been difficult to place in/on the upper back jaw. Sinus augmentation raises the sinus floor and develops the jaw bone, thus helping the successful placement of implants.

Modification of the Ridge: lifting the gum from the ridge can expose the bony defect in the upper or lower jaw. Filling with bone or bone substitute makes up for this defect. This process of ridge modification helps successfully place the implant.