A dental implant is a device that works like the root of a tooth. For
many patients, implants eliminate the need for dentures when restoring a
natural smile.
Uses
Implants form a foundation for permanent or removable teeth when natural
teeth are missing. Designed to match a patient’s natural teeth, they
replace the natural roots with metal, screw-like posts. Although they
sometimes require replacement or repair, dentists expect them to have an
indefinite life.
The most common reasons patients seek dental implants Chicago include
difficulty wearing dentures, trouble eating, speech problems, cosmetic concerns
and preserving structure to avoid bone degeneration.
Types of Implants
The three kinds of implants take their names according to their shapes and
how they attach to the jaw:
- Endosseus devices look like
screws. Placed within the jawbone, they are made of metal, a ceramic
substance or metal clad with a ceramic.
- Subperiosteal devices attach to the
top of the patient’s jawbone but under the gum via a metal framework.
- Transosteal devices consist of
ether a pin manufactured from metal or a U-shaped frame. They pass
through the jawbone and the gums into the individual’s mouth.
In choosing the right design, type and size of a device, a dental
professional considers the required location, kind of bone that will be
involved, amount of available bone and design of any teeth the implant needs to
support.
Risk Factors
Dental implants are not appropriate for all patients. Heavy smokers and
those who suffer from uncontrolled medical conditions such as heart disease
typically are not good candidates. However, the overall success rate of
implants runs around 95 percent.
In most cases, post-surgical issues are minor and usually involve bruising
or swelling, minor bleeding or some pain. Should the bone fail to
properly fuse to the device, the dental professional is faced with removing the
implant.
Inserting Implants
The path to a successful implant begins with a dental evaluation. This
includes an exam by a dentist, taking a health history and performing
radiographic studies.
Most patients require two surgeries for a dental implant. The process
usually requires six to either months. After insertion below the gum
surface, over a period of approximately three to six months, these devices bond
with a patient’s jawbone. During this bonding period, most people wear
dentures. Once bonding is complete, the dentist can make an impression
and begin inserting replacement teeth.
