When someone looses a permanent tooth their chewing function is affected, which in turn can compromise jawbone strength and alignment of the other teeth. Tooth alignment determines how well we chew and this in turn impacts the muscles and bones of our jaw, neck and head. Losing a tooth can result in acute neck and head pain, an uneven bite, and drastic changes in our eating habits.
These are the reasons why a dentist will prescribe tooth replacement procedure whenever a tooth is lost. This can be achieved through bridges, full and partial dentures, and implants. Of all the choices, dental implants are the only method that adds strength and stability to the jaw by replacing the missing roots as well as the missing tooth. See the animated video below for a brief overview of a dental implant placement.
Dental Implant Placement
The tough external covering of a tooth is known as the enamel, the soft middle area is known as the dentin, and the spongy innermost tissue in the roots is known as the pulp which holds the bone marrow, blood vessels and nerves.
Dental implants resemble natural teeth to the extent that they have a root portion and an upper part that performs the same function as the dentin and enamel of natural teeth.Implant fixtures themselves vary in size, but all require surgical implantation into the jawbone. A period of osseointegration must occur, when the fixture fuses to the surrounding bone, which can take three to six months. If osseointegration fails, the process can be tried again, but after a period in which the bone is allowed to heal.
Dental statistics give a ninety-five percent success rate for implants in the lower jaw and a ninety percent success rate in the upper jaw.
Implants are not recommended in all circumstances to all patients; the final determination being made by an appropriately trained dentist or oral surgeon. Issues such as space and bone condition will affect the decision. Sometimes dental surgeons will suggest a "mini-implant" instead, which has a much smaller anchor and is just partially inserted into the jawbone. These are used to replace smaller teeth, or to support dentures or overdentures.
Dental implants are covered with a dental implant crown. See our page on dental crowns and the animated video below for further information.
Dental Implant Restoration
The patients who undergo implant placement should maintain a regular dental hygiene routine, because the soft tissues (gums) around the implants are as vulnerable to bacterial infection as those surrounding natural teeth.
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