A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed in the jaw to hold a denture, bridge or replacement tooth. Dental implants are a suitable treatment option for persons in both good oral and overall health who are missing a tooth or teeth, due to gum disease, injury or another reason(s). Dental implants may be indicated in the following situations:
- To replace one or more teeth without affecting surrounding teeth.
- To provide support for a bridge, and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
- To provide support for a denture (makes it more secure and comfortable to wear).
Modern dental implants are nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth. This close resemblance is due in part to the structural and functional association between the dental implant and living bone.
The root implant—by far, the most popular—is the most effective because it mirrors the size and shape of a patient’s natural tooth. This implant is often as strong as the patient’s original tooth. The implant or artificial root is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. Implants are generally placed in a single visit but require a period of osseointegration.
Osseointegration is the process of the dental implant root anchoring to the bone of the jaw. Implants that osseointegrate into the bone are more successful and the most common type. It generally takes anywhere from three to six months for an implant root to firmly anchor and heal. Dr. Burwell can then complete the procedure by placing a crown, bridge or denture. If osseointegration does not take place, the implant will fail.
Although proper oral hygiene is always recommended for maintaining good dental health, it is especially important when a patient has received a dental implant. Bacteria can attack sensitive areas in the mouth when teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, thus causing gums to swell and jawbones to gradually recede. Recession of the jawbone will weaken implants and eventually make it necessary for the implant to be removed. Patients are advised to visit their dentist at least twice a year to ensure the health of their teeth and implants. Dental implants can last for decades when given proper care.