What Else Are Dental Implants Used For?

What are Dental Implants? If you are unfamiliar with dental terms, you may think that "dental implant" is a term for an artificial tooth. This is incorrect. So what are dental implants? A dental implant is actually an artificial root. These "roots" are made of titanium and are placed directly into the jaw bone. They look similar to a screw. Dental implants are often placed in order to hold artificial teeth, such as a crown, bridge, or dentures. Pittsburgh dental implants are most famous. Why get Dental Implants? There are many reasons why a person might be missing permanent teeth. You may be missing teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, or an injury. Aside from having a complete smile again, there are other benefits to a dental implant.rnRoots have a job aside from holding teeth into place. They also stabilize and stimulate bone, preventing bone loss. When you lose a tooth, there is no longer anything there to stimulate the bone, which will lead to bone loss. Bone loss is not a good thing! It can cause other teeth to shift, which may change not only the appearance of your mouth, but also your bite and other facial structures. Since dental implants are artificial roots that connect to the bone, they help keep the bone healthy, preventing bone loss. Dental implants can secure a crown, which is an artificial tooth. If multiple teeth in a row are missing, a dental implant may secure a bridge. If all teeth on the bottom or top are missing, dental implants can be used to secure dentures in place. rnUtilizing dental implants will help you chew, talk, and smile. Artificial teeth can be very natural looking. This is also good for your confidence and will benefit your physical, mental, and social health. Now that the question "What are Dental Implants?" has been answered, and you know some benefits of getting dental implants, let's look at the process. rnGetting Dental Implants Who Places Them? There are several types of professionals who may complete part, or all, of the dental implant process. A prosthodontist has extended training in placing replacement teeth on top of dental implants. An oral surgeon and a periodontist can place the implants, but likely won't place the crown or bridge on top of the implant. A general dentist with special training may be able to complete part, or all, of the process. It is likely that most dentists will refer you to a specialist. The Consultation The first thing that will happen is a consultation. During the consultation, x-rays will be taken of your teeth and jaws, and impressions of your teeth will likely be made. They may do a type of CT scan, also. It is important to do these things prior to receiving the implants so they can ensure you are a good candidate for the dental implants. It allows the specialist to see the bone structure of your jaw, and to locate your sinuses. It is important that your sinuses are avoided during this process! Infections can occur if your sinuses are damaged. Step 1: Placing the Implant During the next visit, your dental implant will be placed surgically. It is placed underneath the gum, lined up with the bone. After it is placed, it will be left to sit for anywhere from 2-6 months while the implant anchors itself to the bone. Step 2: Placing the Abutment At the next visit, the surgeon will check to see if the implant has done it's job of bonding to the bone. If all is well, they will then uncover the implant and place an extension to it, called the abutment. This is a little post that the crown, bridge, or denture will be connected to. The gums will need some time to heal before placing the crown, bridge, or denture. This may take a couple weeks. Step 3: Placing the Artificial Tooth After the gums have healed, the crown, bridge, or dentures are attached to the abutment, by either being screwed or cemented in. Once placed, these replacements are likely to last a lifetime!rnFollow Up After the dental implant process is complete, it is important to care for your dental implants and new teeth. Brush and floss like normal, and be sure to see your dentist when recommended.