Dental implants are an excellent choice for many missing teeth patients, especially those with bone loss in the jaw. Not only do they replace a lost tooth, but they also restore the jawbone integrity and prevent deterioration of other nearby teeth. In addition, they improve self-confidence when they appear more natural in appearance than dentures.
First, a bone-regenerator treatment called a bone graft is performed to add bone to a deficient area of the jaw. This graft is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The graft must be successful in order for an implant to be placed.
Then, a titanium post is placed into the socket of your missing tooth (bone). As your jaw heals around this metal post, it grows into the bone and bonds with it. This process is called osseointegration, which helps make the implant stable and secure in place.
A replacement tooth, also known as a crown, is then attached to the post. This new tooth or teeth will look and function like your own, providing an excellent smile.
Depending on your needs and the number of teeth that you are replacing, there are several types of implants used for these procedures. Each type is designed to meet different purposes and requirements.
Endosteal Implants: These are the most common type of dental implant. They are surgically placed into the bone, and are usually positioned towards the back of the mouth.
They are more versatile than subperiosteal implants, which rest on the surface of the gum tissue and require surgery to expose the metal implant post that will hold the restoration. They can be a good option in cases where there is insufficient jaw bone height to support an endosteal implant or where it may be difficult to surgically insert a large metal implant.
If your dental professional decides that an endosteal implant is the best treatment option for you, they will then determine the most suitable size and platform for your case. The length, width, and depth of the fixture are all important factors in determining where to place your implant.
In addition, your dental professional in Sarasota will consider other factors that affect the long-term stability of your implant. These include the surface of your implant, the quality and quantity of bone contact with the implant, the diameter and depth of your bone graft, and whether or not you have any other health conditions that could interfere with the placement of your dental implants.
Your dental professional will then develop a personalized surgery plan for you that includes the specific details of your implant procedure. They will help you understand what to expect and answer any questions that you may have about your procedure.
After your surgery, you will need to follow a special after-implant care regimen that our team at Jenkins Dental will design for you. This may include cleanings and other periodontal treatments to keep your gums healthy and maintain the health of your new tooth.
