Dental implants are the new development in the field of restorative and prosthetic dentistry where a lost tooth can be restored by simulating an implant which resembles a tooth. In simpler terms a dental implant is made up of metal (mostly titanium) and is fixed to the jaw bone like a normal tooth and an artificial crown is placed on top of it. With the advent of advanced dentistry, the need for a more feasible and long lasting treatments is made possible. The invention and designing of dental implants has put dentistry at another level which is above the older methods of tooth restoration such as complete and partial removable dentures and fixed bridges.
A normal tooth is made of two parts namely the crown (which is visible in the mouth) and the root (which is hidden in the jaw bones). The root portion of a natural tooth is attached to the jaw bone with the help of fibers of the periodontal ligament. A tooth is lost because it loses its attachment with the adjacent bone because of damage to the periodontal ligament.
What is the principle of dental implants ?
Dental implants simulate the root of a tooth and once they are placed they attach with the adjacent bone during the process of healing. The implant post which is attached to the jaw bone serves as a framework to place the artificial tooth on top of it, thereby resembling a natural tooth in appearance and functionality.
What is a dental implant ?
A dental implant is a metal framework which is usually conical or cylindrical in shape and simulates the appearance of a normal tooth (specially it’s root which is embedded in the jaw bone). Once the dental implant is placed in the jaw bone and is attached to the same, an artificial tooth or aa crown is placed over it which resembles the lost tooth.
What are the types of dental implants ?
Globally the dental implants are classified into two types:
- Endosteal dental implants : These are the most commonly used variety of implants. As the name suggests End-osteal means these implants are placed directly into the bone. Once the implant unit is attached to the surrounding bone, the remaining unit, the crown or a denture is made over it.
- Subperiosteal dental implants : These type of dental implants are indicated in individuals who have very less jaw bone support available for the implant, and the implant framework is placed below the gums and not inside the bone. As the healing occurs the implant gets attached to the gums and the upper surface of the bone.
Who can get a dental implants ?
Any individual despite the age (who have permanent set of teeth) who has lost single or multiple tooth due to either cavity or trauma or any other reason could be a suitable candidate for a dental implant procedure. If you have lost a tooth, or have got one removed, it is advised to consult your treating dentist about the replacement options as if the tooth is not replaced you might have other dental issues in the future.
When is a dental implant not given ?
Dental implant placement is an invasive procedure where the jaw bone is trimmed to place the implant framework and hence individuals who have any chronic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, bleeding and clotting disorders are usually advised to consider implant treatment once their health is restored. Certain chronic health conditions and medication can interfere with the treatment and its overall outcome, hence a thorough checkup of your health is mandatory before you decide to get dental implants.
Who performs dental implant placement ?
Dental implant placements or surgeries are performed by a team of trained dental surgeons, which includes an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, periodontist and a prosthodontist. A trained dental graduate who specializes in dental implants and is licensed to perform such procedures can also perform dental implant surgeries.
How do you prepare for a dental implant surgery ?
Once your treating doctor has advised you to get a dental implant placed, he/she will conduct a thorough examination of your overall health and especially your oral health. The consulting dentist may advise you to get an X-ray of the respective tooth, an OPG (orthopantamograph) or a CT scan depending upon the number of teeth to be replaced by implants. The doctor might also advise you to get certain lab investigations done to clear you for the dental implant surgery.
When is the suitable period to get dental implants ?
Dental implants are ideally placed after the lost tooth socket is healed after an extraction so that any complications are avoided and the implant does not get irregularly attached or fixed (ankylosed) to the jaw bone. Certain individuals who have low height of the jaw bone may also undergo jaw augmentation (ridge augmentation) procedures or grafting of bone to provide optimum support to the implant. With the evolution of advanced dentistry, immediate implants are also placed nowadays followed by loss of tooth. It is important to ask your treating dental surgeon about the type of implants and technique which will be suitable for your requirement.
What material is used as dental implant ?
Dental implants frames or posts are made up of titanium which is a biocompatible metal and does not cause any adverse reactions when placed in the human body.
Does dental implant surgery require anesthesia ?
Yes, dental implants are placed under the influence of local anesthesia and occasionally general anesthesia may be used in case of multiple implant placements.
How are dental implants placed ?
A dental implant is usually placed in a dental clinic when you are made comfortable on a dental chair. A dental implant placement is tailor made usually for an individual’s requirement. The treatment protocol might slightly differ for a single tooth replacement than a multiple teeth replacement, or for a single implant to implant supported bridges and dentures. Classically after the patient is thoroughly evaluated for his/her suitability for a dental implant procedure, the titanium frame of the implant is placed in the desired position in the jaw bone after placing an incision on the gums and the jaw bone. Once the implant post is placed it is closed with the help of sutures and usually a wait for about ten to twelve weeks is required to achieve attachment of bone to the implant post. This attachment is also called as osseointegration. Most the implant posts have a connecting element called as the abutment which sits on top of the implant post and serves as a frame for placing the artificial tooth or crown. The color of the crown resembles your natural tooth color to give a natural look.In case of multiple implant placements or implant supported dentures the procedure might be slightly different.
What care needs to be taken after a dental implant surgery ?
Once the implants are successfully placed, it is important to routinely visit your dentist for follow up on the outcome of the implant. Dental implants are artificial replacements of natural tooth and require the same care such as brushing, using a dental floss and a mouthwash to maintain the oral health.
What are the benefits of dental implant surgery ?
Dental implants have changed the way restorative and prosthetic dentistry used to work. Dental implants are fixed prosthesis hence the need for removing dentures at night is not there. Since they resemble a natural tooth, your comfort is increased and eating and chewing food is the same as before. With dentures patients used to complain of altered speech, which is not the case with dental implants. Dental implants are long lasting, convenient and improve your overall confidence and aesthetics.
What are the risks associated with a dental implant surgery ?
A dental implant is a rather safe procedure, with very few risks as a thorough evaluation of the patient is done before hand. The risks which can occur could be infection or bleeding at the site of implant placement or rarely damage to any blood vessel or nerve during the procedure which can be symptomatic. It is advised to consult your dentist about the potential risks before going ahead with the procedure.
What is the outcome of dental implant surgery ?
Dental implants are the new face of dental restorations. Though they are more highly priced then the conventional dentures and bridges, they are more durable and comfortable. The success rates of dental implant procedures are well documented in literature. Consult your treating dental specialist if dental implants could be the suitable treatment for your lost tooth/teeth.
How to find dental surgeons for dental implant surgery ?
Now you can find and reach dental surgeons for dental implant surgery from different dental clinics, hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple dental surgeons , get approximate cost for dental implant surgery from different dental clinics and hospitals, compare things and then choose a dental surgeon for dental implant surgery.
Find and choose a dental surgeon for dental implant surgery on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
