Uses of Dental Implants

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.