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Dental implants
are devices designed to replace missing teeth. The implant is a
cylindrical unit shaped like a screw that is made of titanium alloy.
This is the same material used to fabricate artificial joints used
in orthopedics. Implants can be placed in the upper or lower jawbone
to substitute for the missing root or roots of
the
teeth. After placement, the implant heals within the jawbone for
a period of 4 to 6 months. During this time the bone cells grow
around and adapt closely to the implant allowing it to become integrated
within the jawbone. Once integrated, the implants serve as an anchor
for the replacement teeth that are attached to it.
Dental implants
can be used to replace either front or back teeth. They can be used
to anchor one tooth or multiple teeth. They may also be employed
to anchor full dentures making them less mobile, more comfortable
and secure.
The ideal implant
candidate is in good general health, has good oral health and has
adequate bone in the areas of the jaw where the implants should
be placed. The quantity and quality of the jawbone is assessed by
using panoramic radiographs and computer assisted tomographs (CAT
scans). If not enough bone exists to support the implant a bone
graft can often be done to correct the deficiency.
Different forms
of dental implants have been around for years but the newer "root
form" implants have exhibited the greatest predictability and
success. These implants can have a success rate greater than 90%
and can last many years, possibly a lifetime.
Dental implants
are usually an alternative to the traditional removable partial
denture and is a solution which provides the comfort and appearance
of natural teeth.
When a single
tooth is missing and the teeth adjacent to the space are sound,
the placement of a single implant prevents the need for cutting
down the adjacent teeth to place a traditional cemented bridge.
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