Dental implants are a great option for those who would like a natural-looking and long-lasting dental solution. Let’s have a closer look at what implants are, who they are right for, and how the surgery works.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are used to replace a missing or severely damaged tooth. They are designed to look and feel natural and screw into the jawbone for a secure fit.
When a tooth is lost due to an injury or decay, it’s best not to leave a gap where the tooth used to be. Teeth can shift and the surrounding teeth can become unstable. Leaving a gap can also cause problems in the jawbone.
A dental implant is a great long-term solution. There are several different types of implant surgeries. At Cornerstone Dental, we use innovative digital radiography to get a clear idea of what implant will work best for each individual.
Do I Have Options for Dental Implants?
There are three main types of dental implants; endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. The type of implants a patient receives depends on the strength of their jawbone.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal, meaning within the bone, is the most common type of dental implant. This type of implant needs a healthy jawbone for the implant to work because the implant tooth is screwed directly into the jawbone. If there is not enough healthy jawbone available, the implant won’t fuse and heal correctly.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal, meaning beneath the membrane, is the second most common type of dental implant and the main alternative to Endosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone, underneath the gum line.
Instead of the implant being inserted into the jawbone, a metal frame is placed under the gum line for the implant to attach to. The gum heals around the metal frame to secure it in place.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic, meaning cheekbone, is the least common type of dental implant. Zygomatic implants are the most complicated method and are only performed if there is not enough jawbone to connect to. These implants are connected to the cheekbone.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants are typically a great option for those who are in good general health, have a strong and healthy jawbone, and are free from gum disease.
Dental implants can be used to fix a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or a full mouth replacement. However, since implants require surgery, it’s not best for everyone. For those missing multiple teeth or who need a full mouth replacement, a dental bridge or dentures may be a better option.
What Is the Treatment Like?
Dental implant surgery is a multi-step process done in stages. This is usually done as an outpatient procedure with adequate healing time between each step.
Tooth Removal & Jawbone Prep
First, if the damaged tooth is still connected, it’s removed. Then the jawbone is prepped for the dental implant. Sometimes a bone graft is needed for there to be enough jawbone available for the implant to take. If a bone graft is needed, it may take several months for the mouth to heal.
Placing the Implant Post
After the jawbone is prepped, a dental implant post is placed into the bone. To do this, the gum is cut open and a hole is drilled into the jawbone. Since the post acts as the tooth’s root and is placed deep into the bone. After the post is placed, the jawbone begins to heal and grow into the dental implant post. This process may take several months and helps provide a solid base for the new tooth.
The Abutment & Crown
Once healed, the gum is reopened to add a connecting element called the abutment. This links the metal screw to the artificial tooth and stabilizes the structure.
After another waiting period for healing, the artificial tooth is ready to be placed into the post. During this step, a mold will be taken of the remaining teeth and used to make the artificial tooth, also called a crown. The crown is connected and secured to the abutment.
Recovery
Each stage of the implant process takes time because the body needs to heal and grow new tissues around the implant. After each of the procedures, minor swelling, bruising, pain at the implant site, and minor bleeding are common.
Take all medication as directed, and eat soft foods while the dental implant is healing. Use a soft toothbrush during and after implant surgery because hard bristles can damage the tissues in the treatment area. Additionally, rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic solution can be a good way of preventing infections and enhancing your oral care routine.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Most dental implants are highly successful and last for many years or even decades. Typically, patients need to get new implants around 30 years after their surgery.
This means that implants are much more permanent than other dental treatments like dentures, which need to be replaced once every five to ten years. To make sure you get the best results
Dental implants are a great solution for people who have lost or broken one or more teeth. Because implants are extremely durable and realistic-looking, they are one of the most popular dental treatments for damaged or missing teeth.
Are You Considering Dental Implants In The Martinsburg Area?
If you are considering dental implants you owe it to yourself to speak with an experienced dentist as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our Martinsburg, West Virginia dental office directly at 304.267.6059 to schedule your appointment. We provide a wide range of general dentistry care as well as more involved dentistry services for patients throughout the Martinsburg area and look forward to you joining the Cornerstone Dental family.
