Individuals who are missing one or more teeth have a variety of options to replace them. While bridges and dentures are a common choice, an increasingly popular option is dental implants. This type of tooth repair replaces the missing root of the tooth and is the ideal way to provide support to replacement teeth.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant refers not so much to the actual tooth, but rather the root of it. An implant is an artificial root (usually made of titanium metal) that is inserted into a patient’s jawbone. This will replace the root of the natural tooth and acts as an “anchor” for the replacement tooth that is then attached to the implant.
Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?
Not all patients who have missing teeth will qualify for Palm Coast FL dental implants. Patients must:
1. Be in good general health
2. Have healthy gums
3. Have enough bone in the jaw to support the implant’
Those who have abnormal jawbones or those that have jawbones that have shrunk may be able to have a bone graft built to help add density to the bone. This would then allow the use of a dental implant.
Who Performs Implants?
Implants are typically performed by a specialist and not your normal dentist. If your dentist believes you may be a good implant candidate, he or she will provide you with a referral to a specialist or oral surgeon who has received in depth training in this area.
How Is The Procedure Performed?
1. The specialist will closely examine your mouth and will take x-rays of your jaw, teeth, and head to make sure implants are the best treatment.
2. The first stage of surgery involves having the implant placed into your jawbone beneath your gum tissue. The gum tissue is stitched back up. Several months may pass as the tissue heals and as the implant bonds with your bone.
3. The second stage of surgery will involve an abutment (or a post) which is attached to you implant. The abutment allows a replacement tooth to be attached to you implant.
4. An artificial replacement tooth will be made. Your specialist will then attach it to your abutment. While this procedure can often be done in one trip, it may take several for a perfect fit
If a patient is having several teeth replaced, a fixed bridge will be anchored to the dental implants.
How Do I Care for Implants?
Caring for implants is quite similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing is required. Those with a bridge in his or her mouth may benefit from special flossing tools to be able to fully clean their gum line and keep the tissue healthy.
