Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth root used to support restorations such as crowns, bridges or dentures. They are typically made of titanium and surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the replacement teeth.
The first step is to have the implant surgically placed into the jawbone. After the implant is placed, it takes several weeks to several months for the implant to fuse to the jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration.
Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the second step is to place an abutment (small connector post) on the implant. This abutment serves as the base for the replacement tooth.
The final step is to place the replacement tooth (crown, bridge, or denture) on the abutment. The replacement tooth is custom-made to match the colour and shape of the surrounding natural teeth.
Dental implants have many advantages over traditional methods of tooth replacement such as bridges and dentures. They provide a secure and stable foundation for replacement teeth, they help to preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss, and they look and function like natural teeth. They also don’t need to be anchored to other teeth and don’t rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place. However, it’s important to note that dental implants require proper care and maintenance like natural teeth and regular follow-up visits to the dentist.
