People who are missing one or more teeth, have poor oral health, or suffer from gum disease may be good candidates for dental implants. Dental implants provide several benefits, including improved chewing ability, speech, self-esteem, and oral health. But how does a tooth implant work?
Learn about the biological process that makes a dental implant such a durable, long-lasting solution for tooth replacement.
How Does a Tooth Implant Work: Parts of a Dental Implant
A tooth implant is a dental prosthetic that replaces missing teeth. It consists of three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown.
The implant is a small titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone. The abutment is a connector between the implant and the crown. The crown is what you see when you smile. A tooth implant can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.
How Does a Tooth Implant Work: The Science Behind Osseointegration
Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace teeth that have sustained a dental injury or teeth lost due to decay or gum disease. The implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. Over time, the bone grows around the implant, creating a strong and stable foundation for the new tooth. This process is known as osseointegration.
For osseointegration to be successful, it is crucial that the implant is placed in healthy bone and that it can fuse properly with the surrounding tissue. The implant post features screw-like threads and has a biocompatible growth-matrix coating.
When the implant is embedded in the jaw, the pressure on the jawbone triggers the release of mesenchymal stem cells called osteoclasts. These cells stimulate the body to deposit minerals around the implant threads, while the growth matrix encourages faster bone cell growth.
Once osseointegration is complete, the implant provides a strong and stable base for the new tooth. Osseointegration also helps preserve the jawbone’s health and can even prevent future tooth loss.
How a Tooth Implant Works: The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure is performed in stages to allow adequate time for osseointegration. The stages of the dental implant procedure include:
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Initial Consultation
The first step in getting dental implants is to get a consultation at your local dental clinic. During the consultation, your dentist examines your mouth and takes X-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Your dentist will create a treatment plan for dental implants, including the number of dental implants you need and the type of dental implant you need.
Your dentist will also discuss the dental implant procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.
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Bone Graft or Sinus Lift
If you are not a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist may recommend a bone graft or sinus lift. Bone graft is a surgical procedure used to increase jawbone density. A sinus lift is a surgical procedure used to raise the sinus membrane to make room for the bone graft to widen the jawbone.
Both of these procedures are used to improve the chances of dental implants being successful.
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Embedding the Implant
During implant surgery, your dentist makes an incision in your gums and exposes the bone. A pilot hole will then be drilled into the bone, and the dental implant will be inserted. The incision in your gums will be sutured closed.
The dental implant must fuse to the bone before the abutment and crown can be attached. This process can take three to nine months.
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Placing the Abutment and Crown
Once the dental implant has fused to the bone, your dentist will surgically attach the abutment by opening the gum tissue to expose the dental implant. The abutment is a small connector piece that holds the dental crown in place.
After the abutment has been placed, your dentist takes an impression of your mouth. This impression will be used to create your dental crown. The dental crown is a false tooth that looks like your natural teeth.
At Dental Spot, we fabricate your restoration at our on-site state-of-the-art dental lab. This allows you to complete the dental implant procedure faster and ensures that your crown, bridge, or denture is made to your exact specifications.
Once the dental crown has been created, it will be placed on top of the abutment. The dental crown will be permanently cemented in place.
Get a Dental Consultation Near You at the Dental Spot
Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have missing or damaged teeth. They look and feel natural and can last many years with proper care. If you’re considering dental implants, we recommend talking to your dentist about the procedure and whether it’s right for you.
At Dental Spot, we have dentists that offer consultations. Contact us at (02) 9158 6115 with questions or to book a dental implant consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental injury
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-injury
Dental Implant
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-implant
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