Understand How a Dental Implant Work

Dental implants provide an excellent alternative to replace damaged or missing teeth with an artificial tooth. The best part about these implants is that they are sturdy and provide a completely natural look.

While the basic procedure of getting a dental implant is the same for everyone, the process may slightly differ based on the patient’s condition. When you visit a dental clinic, the periodontist will thoroughly evaluate, and discuss the treatment plan along with a cost estimate, and timeline with you.

If you have been recommended a dental implant and you wish to know how it works, this article is for you.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants refers to small anchors or screws that are designed to replace your missing teeth roots. These artificial roots are surgically fixed in your jaw. Once these roots are stabilized, the dentist will attach a dental crown.

Dental implants are generally made of titanium or zirconia. These materials are well tolerated by the human body. Over around 4-6 months, the jaw bone naturally grows around the implant and integrates it as a body part.

How Does a Dental Implant Work?

When you visit a dentist for a checkup, the dentist will thoroughly evaluate your teeth with an X-ray and enquire about your medical history to establish if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. If you fit the criteria, the dentist may prepare a treatment plan for your missing tooth.

This involves the following steps:

1.     Tooth Extraction:

If the damaged or decayed tooth is present in the mouth, the treatment may start by extracting the tooth. Mild swelling after extraction is normal which may subside within a few days. The dentist may wait for up to 5-10 weeks before starting the dental implant procedure.

2.     Bone Grafting:

If the jaw is too soft to support the implant, the dentist may recommend a bone graft. During this procedure, the dentist places a bone graft material in the missing tooth cavity to enhance bone growth.

3.     Dental Implant Placement:

Once the jaw is ready, the dental implant placement will begin. The dentist will numb the area and make an incision in the gum to fix the implant. Once fixed, the gum will be stitched.

Healing after this may take up to 6 months. Once this is healed, the dentist will focus on connecting the implant with a dental crown.

4.     Fitting the Dental Crown:

The final stage of the dental implant procedure involves placing a dental crown. The dental crown is the visible part of the tooth that looks and feels exactly like your natural tooth.

How Effective is a Dental Implant?

The main advantage of a dental implant is that it can stop bone loss in the jaw. Unlike other tooth replacement options that only focus on replacing missing teeth above the gum line, dental implants stimulate the jaw. This stimulation does not hamper adjacent teeth.

When it comes to tooth replacement options, denture is also an excellent alternative. The main problem, however, with dentures is that they may move around in the mouth while you speak or eat. On the other hand, a dental implant provides a permanent structure and becomes integrated with your gum.

In addition, it also acts as an anchor for the periodontist so that it feels and functions exactly like your natural teeth.

Takeaway

A dental implant is an effective tooth replacement treatment. It provides a permanent solution by integrating with your gums and looking like your natural teeth. These can not only help you smile, talk, and eat but also help you live with confidence.

If you have a missing tooth and are looking for tooth replacement options, you can consult us at Periodontal Specialists.

Schedule an appointment with us today!