dental implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements that are used to counter tooth loss. The procedure is categorized as a form of prosthetic (artificial replacement) dentistry, though it also falls into the category of cosmetic dentistry as well.

Although you have a number of restorative options for the treatment of missing teeth, none have proven to be as functionally effective and durable as implants. In many cases, dental implants may be the only logical choice for the restoration of all necessary functionality of the teeth and supporting structures.

Strong, durable and natural in appearance, implants are among the most successful dental procedures performed.

Teeth are lost because of:

• Tooth decay
• Root canal failure
• Periodontitis (gum disease)
• Trauma to the mouth
• Excessive wear and tear

People who have lost teeth might feel too self-conscious to smile or talk. Additionally, biting irregularities caused by tooth loss can have a negative effect on eating habits and this can lead to secondary health problems like malnutrition. Regardless of the nature of problems related to tooth loss, dental implants may provide a simple remedy with proven results.

A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw. It will bond with the bone over time and thus serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.

A dental implant is a manufactured post that is designed to create a stable foundation for a natural looking tooth restoration. Placed directly into the jawbone, a dental implant is the closest thing to your natural tooth.

There are two parts to a dental implant which simulate the strong holding ability of the tooth root. The main part of the dental implant is embedded in the jawbone for an effect that is vastly stronger than dentures are capable of. The second part of the dental implant is a post that protrudes above the jawbone and gumline, to provide a fixed point to attach the tooth restoration that will simulate the crown.

To replace one tooth, a single post is all that is required. For the replacement of multiple teeth, it might be necessary to place several dental implant posts.