A dental implant is an biocompatible artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth, bridge or denture.
Apart from being able to smile, eat, and speak better, they also protect the existing bone. When a tooth is extracted or falls out, the tooth root is no longer present in the jaw to stabilize and support the bone. As a result, bone deteriorates and gums may recede.
Because dental implants utilize artificial tooth roots made of a biocompatible metal, titanium, bone adheres to implant. Therefore, dental implants mimic natural tooth roots and deter bone loss.
Replacing missing teeth with implants also prevents teeth from shifting and creating subsequent bite problems. Missing teeth can also cause the appearance of sunken cheeks and lips that curl inward, two issues that make a person look aged. Without a full set of teeth, evenly chewing food can become problematic, which can lead to digestion or nutrition issues. By replacing teeth with dental implants, much discomfort and unease can be avoided.
WHO IS THE CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANT?
Dental implants are the best option for people of all ages in good general oral health. There are some health conditions which warrant special consideration. Certain chronic diseases, heavy smoking, or alcohol abuse may contraindicate implant treatment. After careful evaluation of your health history, our dentists will alert you to any conditions that may effect your treatment and at the end, the best solution will be presented to you. Please remember, age is not a factor.
IS THERE ENOUGH BONE FOR IMPLANT PLACEMENT?
It is important for a patient to have enough bone to support an implant. If you do not have enough bone, there are many safe and effective ways to correct bone deficiency. Our implantologist will assess you and advise you if additional bone mass is needed. It may be necessary for him to perform an artificial bone replacement or sinus lift in order for the implant to be placed.