Dental Implants Explained

Dental implants are designed to provide a natural-looking and functional replacement for missing tooth roots. They also stimulate the jawbone to prevent bone loss and support facial features. They can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or a full arch of teeth.대구임플란트전문치과

You will first need to consult a dental professional who can evaluate your jawbone structure. This will include taking X-rays and computer tomography scans (CT scans) to ensure there is enough bone mass and to determine where the implant needs to be placed. If there is not, you will need to undergo a bone graft. This involves transplanting bone tissue from another part of your body, usually the hip or tibia. The new bone will eventually grow into the bone where the implant is being placed, giving it strength and stability.

A dentist or oral surgeon will perform the surgery to place your implant. They will numb your mouth with local anesthesia and make a cut in your gum to expose the bone. They will then drill holes into the bone where they will place the metal implant post. The implant posts can either be self-tapping, meaning the screw is inserted into the bone and then locked into place without the need for further surgery, or they may be threaded into the bone and require a special tool to insert.

Your implant will then bond with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. This takes a while, depending on the condition of your jawbone. During this time, you will be fitted with a temporary denture to allow you to function normally.

Once your implant has bonded with the bone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is attached to it. This post is what supports the artificial tooth.

If your dentist doesn’t perform this operation, they will refer you to a specialist — often an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, but sometimes a periodontist or prosthodontist. The specialist will examine your mouth and jaw and may ask for a CT scan to assess the density of your bone and determine whether you can receive an implant.

Most implants are successful, but there are risks. Smoking, for example, reduces the chance that the implant will fuse with the jawbone. If the implant doesn’t fuse with the bone, it will need to be removed and replaced, but you can try again in a few months.

It is important to maintain good oral health, including regular brushing and flossing, so the surrounding teeth and implant do not become diseased or damaged. Regular follow-up visits with your dentist or oral surgeon are essential to ensure the health of the implant and surrounding teeth. If you notice any problems, contact your doctor immediately.램브란트치과