What are dental implants?
Dental implants have rapidly become one of the most popular restoration treatments that cosmetic dentistry has to offer. As one of the most important advancements in modern dentistry, dental implants are a strong, stable, and permanent way to restore missing teeth.
An implant is an artificial tooth root made from a combination of metallic and ceramic materials that are suitable for use in your body. The implant itself, which is usually made of titanium, is surgically anchored into your jawbone, where it holds a porcelain crown or a bridge in place. There are two types of dental implants: One that’s anchored directly into your jawbone, similar to a real tooth root, and one that involves a custom metal framework fixed onto your jawbone.
Are dental implants right for me?
Although the majority of patients who are healthy and have adequate jawbone mass are suitable candidates for dental implants, implant restoration may not be right for everyone. Successful implant surgery hinges on the proper bone structure and healthy gums. Before you can receive implants, Dr. Allemand will use an X-ray or CT-scan to determine if your jawbone is substantial enough to hold an implant, as well as to work out the size and type of implant that you require.
If you’re affected by chronic dental problems like teeth clenching or nighttime grinding, implants may not be the best option for you. Similarly, if you have any health issues that can interfere with the healing process following surgery — such as diabetes — dental implants may not be a viable restoration option. People who smoke cigarettes may not be suitable implant candidates, either, because smokers are also slower to heal.
What does the procedure involve?
Implant surgery is an in-office procedure done under local anesthesia.
After anchoring the titanium root into your jawbone, Dr. Allemand will secure your gum tissue over the implant, leaving it covered until the implant fuses with the bone.
When fusing is complete Dr. Allemand will uncover the implant and attach a post to it. Then he’ll attach an artificial tooth, or porcelain crown, to the post.
Although the procedure varies from patient to patient, the entire process can take up to nine months to complete. After the initial implant surgery, it may take up to six months for a patient to heal completely. After that, the fitting of replacement teeth doesn’t usually take longer than a couple of months. For patients with very good bone quality, the process can go much faster.
