What are Dental Implants?
If an individual is not conversant with the technology, dental implants can sound more like science fiction. As a layman would phrase it, “a dental implant is a fake tooth that your dentist gives you after putting a screw into your gum. You can then brush the fake tooth as if it were a real, and people will never notice its fake.” If you find this definition overwhelming, then you are in the right place because we are going to demystify the mystery around dental implants.
A dental implant is a metal post or frame that are surgically positioned into your jawbone beneath your gum. Once in position, the dental implant allows your dentist to mount a replacement tooth on to it.
How Does a Dental Implant Work?
A dental implant provides stable support for your artificial tooth since the implant is infused into your jawbone. The dentures and bridges mounted onto an implant will not shift or move in your mouth especially when eating or speaking. The secure fit, therefore, supports the dentures and bridge while also supporting the individual crowns that are placed over the implant, thereby providing a more natural feel when compared to conventional dentures or bridges.
Types of dental implants
Endosteal dental
An Endosteal dental implant is the most common type of dental implant and is used by dentists to Performa dental implant procedure that is done in two stages. An Endosteal implant often takes the shape of a little screw and is made of titanium. Your dentist will perform a minor surgery during which the implant will be placed into your jawbone. A temporary tooth will then be placed on top of the implant so that you leave your dentist’s office smiling.
After considerable time (weeks, and in some instances a few months), your mouth will be left to heal. During this time, you will be visiting your dentist for periodic checks so that your progress can be measured. A minor surgical procedure will be done after you are done healing. The second surgery allows the attaching of the abutment and the permanent crown. The Endosteal dental implant is common among patients with healthy jawbones. Besides, patients who consent to bone grafting procedures for jaw augmentation can opt for this type of implant.
Subperiosteal dental implants
In place of the tiny metal screws used in Endosteal implants, the Subperiosteal dental implant uses a metal framework. The metal framework is placed above your jawbone instead of being placed into it. Instead of having your dental implant placed below your gum and hiding its visibility, the Subperiosteal dental implant is left exposed so that it can hold your bridge and crown. The Subperiosteal Implant is a common procedure among individuals who lack healthy jawbones, or those who have declined to have a jaw grafting procedure.
Unlike the Endosteal dental implant that involves a two-stage procedure, a Subperiosteal dental implant takes place as a single-stage procedure. A second surgery is not required to expose the implant as the abutment is easily placed when your mouth heals properly. Individuals who opt to anchor a complete set of dentures instead of getting typical dental implants are advised to go for this type of dental implant.
How Patients Can Determine the Best Dental Implant Option
The only way you can determine the perfect implant option to opt for is by visiting a board-certified dentist who has a specialty in dental Implant.
During your appointment, the dentist will examine your unique situation, after which an assessment will be made. If you are a good candidate for a dental implant procedure, the dentist will advise you on the best option to undergo while taking account of what works best for you.