Are you in the process of deciding if a dental implant treatment is the right choice for you? A dental implant is essentially a replacement tooth in which the root is replaced with a metal, screw-like post that anchors an artificial tooth designed to look and function just like a natural tooth. There are many tooth replacement treatments to consider, and choosing the right option is an important decision. A single dental implant offers many benefits, but the process may involve several procedures, and the health of the jawbone is a major factor in the treatment’s success. Below is more information on the key benefits of dental implants and why you may want to consider this approach to replacing your missing tooth.
Why a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as the root of the new tooth. Once placed, the post begins to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This process is one of the greatest advantages of dental implant treatment, in which the implant becomes securely and permanently anchored in the bone, just like a natural tooth root. Other treatment options, such as fixed bridgework or dentures, do not offer this permanent, secure fit and can sometimes cause damage or decay to the surrounding teeth. You may be a good candidate for a dental implant if you:
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Have a healthy, fully developed jawbone
- Have sufficient healthy bone to secure the implant
- Do not have a health condition that affects bone healing
- Are comfortable with a several-month treatment process
- Do not smoke or use tobacco, or are willing to quit
What You Can Expect from a Dental Implant
The single dental implant procedure is typically completed as a series of outpatient procedures. Each stage is performed separately to allow adequate time for healing between surgeries. The dental implant process involves the following steps:
- Removal of the damaged or decaying tooth
- Prepare the jawbone for implant, which may include bone grafting for some patients
- Dental implant placement in the jawbone
- Healing period to allow osseointegration and bone growth
- Abutment placement on the implant post
- Artificial tooth placement on an abutment
From start to finish, the entire process can take several months. While the individual procedures are minimal and relatively brief, much of this time is for healing and allowing the bone to grow and integrate with the implant.
Choosing the Right Replacement for You
The part of the implant that is visible is the artificial tooth, called the crown. After the gums have healed, the dental provider will take impressions of the mouth and remaining teeth to ensure the replacement looks as natural and realistic as possible. Implants can be used to support many different types of artificial teeth, including removable full or partial dentures or more permanent artificial crowns and bridges. Selecting the best option will depend on your goals, the number of teeth being replaced, and potentially the location of the missing teeth.
Related Article: How Long Does the Single Dental Implant Procedure Take?