Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone during oral surgery. These metal posts act as tooth root replacements, anchoring replacement teeth to the jaw. At Atlanta Dentistry By Design, placing dental implants requires surgery, so patients must be healthy enough to undergo the process. Patients should be free from periodontal infections and other conditions that could interfere with healing following implantation. Patients must have sufficient bone in their jaws to support the implant posts. If bone loss has occurred, additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be needed before the placement of dental implants.
Once healed, the dental implant will be a permanent part of the patient’s jaw. The post is biocompatible, and the bone will fuse around it in a process known as osseointegration. Osseointegrated implants are durable and can last a lifetime with proper care and good oral hygiene habits. This means patients who receive dental implants will never need to worry about removing them for cleaning the same way they would with dentures.
Dental implants can be an effective restorative solution for tooth loss when correctly cared for and maintained. Patients who have missing teeth are encouraged to speak with a dentist about the advantages of this and other treatment options.
The Benefits of Dental Implants Restorations
- With dental implants, you don’t have to worry about your restoration failing when eating or speaking.
- Dental implants are more stable than fixed bridges or removable dentures because they don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support.
- Dental implants are easy to care for and allow you to maintain your oral health routine.
- Implants are a great way to replace a missing tooth without dealing with the stress of a fixed bridge.
- Your restored smile will be stronger with dental implants than with a traditional dental bridge.
The Dental Implant Restorations Procedure
To begin the implant process, a small incision is made in the gum line, and a hole is drilled into the bone where a tooth root once was. A titanium post is then placed into the hole, and the gums are stitched closed over the implant to allow it to fuse with the jawbone. Over time, the jawbone will heal around the newly implanted metal post, creating a solid and sturdy foundation for the new tooth restoration. Once this process is complete, a reliable and lifelike dental crown can be affixed to the top of the post to restore both function and beauty to the smile.
To learn more about achieving a healthy, beautiful smile through comprehensive dental care, contact Atlanta Dentistry By Design at 1800 Peachtree St NW Suite 200, Atlanta GA 30309, or call (404) 355-2001.