Image source: http://www.njperioimplant.com/files/2013/10/fig1.png
The Dental Implant Process
1) Initial Consultation
The doctors first need to check if there's enough jawbone present for an implant. They can easily determine this with the help of X-rays and CT scans. If there's enough bone, They can easily proceed; if not, they will first carry out bone grafting.
2) Insertion of Implant
During this stage doctors perform a surgical procedure to insert a small, screw-like, titanium post into the jawbone; in place of the miss9ing tooth. Most doctors place a healing cap over the implant as a temporary cover to keep it clean.
3) Healing Period
After the implant has been inserted, the jawbone and the surrounding gum tissues need some time to heal. During this healing period, the jawbone fuses with the implant to form a sturdy anchor for the artificial tooth.
4) Placing the Abutment
Once the jaw is healed and the bone and the implant are well fused, a minor surgery is carried out to expose the head of the implant. This is done to remove the healing cap and attach a small abutment over the implant.
5) Healing Period
Again, after placing the abutment on top of the implant, the gum tissues need some time to heal around it. Doctors may affix a temporary cap on top of the abutment for the duration of this healing period.
6) Affixing the Crown
After placing the abutment, doctors take an impression of the teeth so that they can start building the permanent crown. When it's ready and the gums have healed, doctors take out the temporary cap and affix the permanent crown over the abutment.
Are Dental Implants Reliable?
It is estimated that roughly 3 million people have tooth implants in the US alone
500000 people get dental implants per year in the US.
Dental Implant success rates are 95% or higher over 10 years.
Dental implants provide the feel, function, and appearance of natural teeth.
Implants involve minimally-invasive techniques and have a success rate higher than any other tooth replacement system.
What Happens IF you do not opt for a dental implant
At least 1 neighboring tooth will migrate & recline towards the empty space. Soon, teeth in abnormal positions will deform and even break.
Periodontal disease is 50% more likely and may be the cause for a new extraction.
The teeth near the gap will develop caries 7 times faster. Because they move and their root is exposed.
Because you are missing a tooth on one side of the mouth you will put other teeth under more pressure & they will break faster.
Other solutions will affect the structure of surrounding teeth, need constant care and do not replicate natural teeth correctly.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Aesthetics
Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth Unlike other options, dental implants help preserve the jaw bone. Implants help prevent a sunken-in appearance that can result from missing teeth.
Comfort
Dental implants are rooted into the jaw bone, making them strong and stable. Your implants won't get in the way when you are going about your daily life. Implants are the best choice for stability when replacing missing teeth.
Longevity
When taken care of properly, dental implants can last a lifetime, as opposed to dental bridges, which may only last 5-10 years. Implants should only need occasional adjustments and regular dental care.
Care
You'll have regular check-ups with your dentist to make sure your implants heal properly. Care for them as you do your natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing. Dental implants are not susceptible to tooth decay, but you should still practice good dental hygiene.
Neighboring Teeth
Some tooth replacement options require neighbouring teeth to be ground away. Dental implant simply fills the space left behind by your natural teeth. Neighbouring teeth are left along so dental implants have no impact on them.
