Dental Implants : What Are They?
How do Dental Implants work? What are they?
Dental implants Lone Tree colorado first made an appearance on the dentistry market back in the 1950s. Of course, without the advancements in technology we have today, there were very few patients who could afford this expensive procedure. However, now that dental implants are becoming more affordable, the treatment is commonly recommended for individuals with missing or decaying teeth requiring replacements.
Seen as a luxury treatment for so long, some patients are wondering: What exactly are dental implants, and how do they work?
Dental Implant Overview
Dental implants are permanent, fixed solutions for individuals who require a replacement tooth or teeth. They do not sit on top of gums or use existing teeth for support as traditional restoration options, but instead, are surgically inserted into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. There are three parts to a dental implant: the implant, the abutment, and the crown.
The Implant
The most critical piece of the dental implant is the implant itself. This cylindrical post is created using titanium materials to ensure durability and long-lasting results. The implant serves as a substitute for the root of a tooth and is surgically placed into the jawbone.
The Abutment
The connector between the crown and the implant is called the abutment. This post is screwed inside the implant firmly and serves as the primary support to the crown placed on top.
The Crown
The crown is the last step of the dental implant and typically, is made of porcelain. This replacement tooth is highly durable, functioning much like a natural tooth.
How Do Implants Work?
Dental implants can provide a permanent solution to missing teeth because they are designed to mimic you natural teeth and roots. The goal of the procedure is to give you a natural looking smile. To complete this process successfully, implants meet the following qualifications during the steps of the procedure.
Bone Integrity
The implant process examines your bone integrity to ensure it is healthy enough to sustain an implant before placement. Bone grafts are used to strengthen bones if necessary, increasing the overall health and functionality of your oral cavity.
Surgically Placed
As stated above, implants do not sit on top gums or using existing teeth as supports. By surgically placing the implant directly into the jawbone, it acts similar to a natural tooth root.
Fusing to Bone
Another benefit of surgically placing the implant into the jawbone is the ability for the implant to fuse to the bone. This gives the implant durability equivalent to the root of a natural tooth.
Increased Functionality
One of the overall best factors about a dental implant is the option to return complete functionality to the mouth. After the abutment is placed on the implant and the crown is screwed on top, your mouth can resume oral habits never possible with alternative dental replacements.
Natural Looking
Using porcelain for the crown, your replacement tooth is matched and blended in with your existing teeth for a perfectly natural looking smile.
For more information on the implant process, schedule a consultation with your dentist to begin discussing your unique treatment plan for a healthier smile.
Baer Dental Designs would be happy to consult you on making your dental implants decision. Contact us today.
The benefits of Dental Implants are impressive. Read more here.