A dental implant is used to replace the root of a natural tooth. It is made of titanium and will fuse to the bone in the jaw over time. This process of bone cells fusing to the surface of the implant is called osseintegration. Over a period of 10 years, implants have over a 95% success rate. Success is defined as a healthy, functioning implant, free of infection.
An implant replaces the natural root of a tooth. It is typically placed in the bone in the same position as the missing tooth. After a healing time of about 4 months an abutment is attached to the implant as seen in gold, and the crown, which replaces the tooth, is cemented onto the abutment. The length and diameter of the dental implant is very similar to a natural tooth root.
There are many situations that require implant tooth replacement. The most common stem from dental disease such as periodontal disease or decay. We also see many patients who have had some type of accident which resulted in a missing or damaged tooth. Finally, there are many adolescence who were unfortunately born without their adult teeth. They have congenitally missing teeth and are great candidates for dental implant treatment. ¬
Most patients are looking to fulfill one of three common treatment objectives.
One of the largest complaints patients have is with the function of their teeth. Missing teeth make it difficult to chew properly, and eat the foods they like. They may have pain or discomfort with their teeth and are looking to be pain free. Lastly, the appearance of their teeth is another common issue for patients. Most feel like they can’t smile the way they’d like and want to restore their self-confidence and get their smile back.
