A dental implant is a titanium-based prosthesis that we use in order to replace missing teeth.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
The main advantage of dental implants is that they can replace missing teeth without affecting the neighboring teeth. For example, if you are missing a single tooth, one option could be to drill the teeth in front and behind the space and place a three-unit bridge (that is cemented in place). Another option would be to have a removable denture or flipper-type device that replaces the missing tooth, and is removed at night.
A second important advantage of implants is that unlike real teeth, implants do not get decay. Thus, if you are faced with a decision to have a root canal, post and crown, or a dental implant, the implant is often the best option because it will almost always last longer.
Almost half of all adults will lose one or more teeth at some point in their life. And while losing a tooth might not seem like that big of a deal, it is, and without proper treatment you can lose bone density and jaw power. Bone loss in the jaw is the number one leading factor to creating a sunken facial appearance. Additionally losing a tooth can also lead to the following issues;
- Difficulty eating and speaking naturally without effort
- Misaligned bite which leads to TMJ pain
- Increased risk for gum disease and decay
The good news is that at Magis Dental we offer high-tech and modern dental implants that are strong, stable, natural in appearance, and completely functional. Ask us today about how an implant could restore your ability to eat, speak, smile with confidence.
How do dental implants work? What are the parts?
A dental implant is made up of three parts: the first part is the implant itself, which is surgically placed in the bone (in the office). The second part is the abutment – the part that connects the implant to the implant crown. The third and final part is the implant crown. It functions as a regular crown would on one of your natural teeth; it connects to the abutment, which then connects to the implant itself.
How long does it take to have an implant placed?
The procedure to have an implant placed can often take less than 30 minutes. However, the time to go from start to finish (implant placement to completed crown) is usually in the 3 – 9 month range because of the time is takes for the implant to osseointegrate (fuse with the bone). If the amount of bone for placing the implant was limited, and a bone graft was placed, it may take a few months more, because the bone graft has to heal in place as well.
What if I need more than one implant?
One of the great things about dental implants is that they can be used as a replacement for a missing tooth or teeth, and can also be used to replace an entire arch of teeth! For example, one of the most common and beneficial uses of dental implants is as an implant denture — a denture that’s held in with implants. Many patients who wear lower dentures struggle because of the way the lower jaw loses bone, and a traditional denture that’s supported in part with dental implants can provide a world of difference for eating, smiling, and feeling confident in public again!
