Whether you are missing one tooth or a full arch, dental implants provide an exceptional alternative to traditional dentures, bridges and crowns. Implants are made of titanium and integrate with the jawbone, providing a powerful replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Unlike conventional dentures and bridges, which often require good tooth structure to be removed from neighboring teeth, dental implants are permanent. In fact, they last a lifetime and are designed to be comfortable, attractive, and durable.
The process of placing a dental implant starts with an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss your situation and options. During this visit, the dentist or oral surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of your mouth and bone tissue. This may include X-rays and computer tomography (CT) scans.
If you do not have enough bone for placement of dental implants, the oral surgeon may recommend a graft procedure to increase the amount of available bone in your jaw. The graft will typically take several months to heal, and then your dentist or oral surgeon can place the implant.
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal (endosseous) and subperiosteal (subperiosteal). The type of implant that will be best suited to your needs is determined by your dentist or oral surgeon.
1. Single Tooth – A single implant is used to replace a missing single tooth, such as a back molar or anterior (front tooth). After the implant has healed, a crown will be fitted on top.
2. Bridge – A bridge is used to replace several missing teeth, and can be supported by the use of a single or multiple implants. The bridges can be fabricated to match the color of your existing teeth and may be held in place by metal clasps or wires.
3. Full Arch – An implant that replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw can be placed, a procedure known as “teeth in a day.” The entire treatment is performed in one visit and takes less than half the time of traditional dental procedures.
4. Mini or Narrow Body – These implants range in size from 2 mm to 3.5 mm and are placed primarily in patients with insufficient space between their teeth for a larger-sized restoration. They are also used to support temporary restorations while osseointegration occurs.
5. Two-Stage – A two-stage implant involves surgery to place an implant into the jawbone and then a minor surgical procedure to attach an abutment and temporary restoration.
During this procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will close the gum tissue over the implant site, and then place a cover screw on top to protect the area during healing. This is followed by an extended period of up to six months during which the implant and surrounding bone will begin to fuse together, a process called osseointegration.
The success of any dental implant depends on the quality and thickness of your jawbone, as well as your general health and medications. Uncontrolled chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer or long-term steroid therapy can slow the healing and integration of the implant in the jawbone. If any of these conditions are present, they should be addressed before undergoing the treatment. If you are looking for a skilled Sarasota dental implant specialist, you may visit https://www.thesarasotadentist.net/dental-implants/.