Implant Dentistry
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an option for replacing one or more missing teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, a post made of titanium, that is surgically planted into the jawbone and used to support dental restorations. It is unique in that it creates an artificial tooth root in the bone and gums of the mouth and is the most modern replacement of a missing tooth that technology has to offer.
Implants support three kinds of dental restorations: individual teeth, snap-in dentures, and bridges. The implant provides a strong foundation for the restoration as it fuses with the bone and becomes permanent. Dental implants may be the best option when bridges or dentures are uncomfortable or not possible due to soreness or other issues. There are other benefits to implants to consider as well.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have many benefits and advantages over traditional crowns, bridges, dentures and partials.
Implants can improve physical appearance, speech, and comfort. Since they fuse with bone, they become permanent and feel like natural teeth. They do not slip (as dentures sometimes do) and thus do not create speech difficulties. They do not have the inherent discomfort of removable dentures.
Nearby teeth are not reduced or altered in order to support implants; thus, remaining teeth in the mouth remain intact and improve long-term oral health. Oral hygiene is better too since individual implants permit flossing and better cleaning.
Implants may last a lifetime and are very durable.
Considerations
A dental patient must have healthy gums and bone to support implants. Patients will also need to maintain good oral hygiene and commit to regular dental visits to ensure long-term success of dental implants.
Documents and Consent Forms
The following documents and consent forms need to be read and signed before scheduling an implant procedure. (These are in the PDF format; download a free PDF reader from Adobe.)
