Dental implants can change the lives of those with missing teeth. Implants give individuals the chance to have permanent dentures or bridges, which can drastically improve the quality of life. Biting and chewing is infinitely easier, allowing better nutrition. There is improved oral comfort, decreased incidences of gum problems, improved speech, and for many, increased confidence knowing that he or she can smile again without the embarrassment caused by missing teeth.
What is a dental implant?
Also known as tooth implants, dental implants are tiny titanium screws that act as an artificial tooth root. The implant is inserted into the bone of the jaw through the mouth, and acts as an anchor or a support to a denture, crown or bridge.
With individual crowns, only one implant is required. There are various techniques used with implants, depending on requirements. For example, there may be just two missing teeth, several missing teeth or in some instances all the teeth are missing – and a complete set of artificial teeth or dentures are required.
The implant is only one part of the procedure when fitting artificial teeth. After placing the implant in the mouth, the bone has to heal through a process known as “osseointegration”. Osseointegration is when the bone fuses around the implant.
After the bone has healed, an abutment is placed on the implant. This is like a little connector between the dental implants and either the artificial tooth or the bridge. Sometimes, dental implants can be fitted with little press-stud-like attachments to hold a denture in place. These press studs minimise movement of the denture.
For more information on the treatment stages required for dental implants, refer to our previous blog, “Your dental implants: a step-by-step guide”.
The benefits of dental implants
Dental implants have many benefits. Here are the most significant ones.
- They can help prevent receding gums.
- Facial bone-loss and the resultant facial changes are prevented. When there are teeth missing, the bone in the jaws can start to degenerate. Over time, the results can be quite drastic, hollowing out the face and dramatically changing the appearance of the face and jaw. Dental implants keep the bone tissue healthy.
- Implants are placed securely in the jaw, providing a permanent solution for artificial teeth.
- In most cases, implants are surrounded by gum tissue, similar to natural teeth.
- Generally speaking, dentures are much more comfortable than traditional dentures.
- Dental implants can be cleaned just like normal teeth, using a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss.
- They provide solid support for dentures, making biting and chewing easier.
Can anyone have dental implants?
Most people are candidates for implant dentistry; however, before the procedure commences, patients must have an x-ray or even a CT scan to ensure there is sufficient bone in the jaw. Certain health conditions can prevent an individual from having implants, particularly if the condition is likely to adversely affect the Osseointegration process. However, provided the individual in in good health, dental implants are generally a great way to permanently address the issue of missing teeth.
Is it painful?
No. The dental implant procedure is relatively painless and each step is very quick. Usually, it is performed in the dentist’s or periodontist’s (gum specialist’s) chair. The only minor discomfort may be due to the stitches in the days after the implants are placed. Occasionally, a general anaesthetic is required in which case the procedure is undertaken by an oral surgeon in hospital.