You may have heard the term “dental implant” used before, but you may not know what they are, or what they can correct. The actual name itself pretty accurately describes the fact that these devices are implanted, or placed, into the structure of the jaw. Whenever a tooth has been extracted or otherwise removed, these implants can act as a replacement tooth. When it comes to the need for dental implants, Austin patients may have many different reasons for choosing this solution.
The actual prosthetic itself is made from a combination of different materials that are chosen to both naturally fuse with the bone of your jaw, and to look and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. A top Austin dentist can provide you with a personal consultation if you’re considering implants for yourself.
The Components of the Implant:
- The fixture is the part of the implant that goes into the bone of the jaw. This part is a titanium screw, the material of which has been chosen because it allows for the bone of the jaw to more readily graft over it, as it would for the root of a natural tooth. The actual materials chosen are typical of a higher level of purity than what you might find with other titanium products.
- The abutment is the part of the implant that is above the gum. This will be the seat of the crown, which will be placed later. Abutments are usually not placed on the implant until the fixture has fused to the bone, to provide a more stable level of support for the crown.
- The crown, or prosthesis, is the most visible part of the implant. The crown looks like a natural tooth and is always custom made and fitted to be as comfortable and natural looking as possible for a patient. Crowns may be screwed onto the fixture, or they may be bonded, depending on the function of the implant.
What Are The Types Of Dental Implants?
Most people have problems with their teeth and feel bad with the gaps in the mouth. This problem can be solved with the invention of dental implants. Dental implants are used to replace a missing tooth to avoid having gaps in between the teeth. Dental implants are very natural, and hardly will anyone notice they are artificial. Contrary to some believe dental implants do not affect the neighboring teeth. There are different types of dental implants available.
Plate Form Dental Implant
Patients who have narrow jawbones plate form dental implant are the best. The plate form is very tight and will fit in the jawbone. The dentist will make sure the patient has received the anesthesia before he places the implant. The number of implants determines the incisions and bone preparations to be done. The healing process takes six months or less.
Root Form Dental Implant
A root from the dental implant is the most common type of dental implant. This implant is preferred because it is shaped exactly like the root of a tooth and is used in instances where there is enough space for the implant to be fixed. In cases whereby the jawbone is very small, the bones are grafted fro a larger area. This implant is attached when the patient has received anesthesia from the dentist to ensure that he does not feel pain. The implant is normally placed on the gums and stitched; the stitches will take approximately six months to heal completely.
Immediate Load Dental Implants
This type of dental implant is surgically fixed by the dentist immediately the tooth is extracted and the crown attached. People who are looking forward to cutting down the cost of repairing an implant should use immediate load dental implants. These implants are not only cheap but are also useful because they take less time to heal. This procedure is very new in the market, and people should be careful since not all dentists have the required knowledge. It is essential to note that to qualify for this procedure; you must have enough bones to make the implant stable and secure.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
There are rare cases whereby the width and height in the jawbone do not fit either the root from dental implants or plate form implants. Subperiosteal dental implants are recommended. This implant is made in such a way that it will fit in the jawbone.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini Dental Implants usually are cheaper than traditional implants and also can be employed to fasten a dental implant backed denture or partial.
Dental patients are different and the same way dental implants are different, they have been made to suit the needs of various patients. Most dental implants available have been made from titanium since this metal is known to connect well with the gum when fixing the implant.
What Can Dental Implants Correct?
- Missing teeth are the primary problem that dental implants are used to correct. Implants may be recommended for one, or several, teeth that have been extracted or otherwise have been removed from the mouth.
- Dentures may also be used in conjunction with dental implants to provide a more secure setting for the prosthesis. A series of dental implants can be placed along the upper and lower jaw, and then the denture plate can be secured into those implants, effectively keeping the dentures from “slipping” or otherwise falling out of place.
- Bridges can also be used with dental implants, in a way that’s similar to dentures; one dental implant may act as a post, and another be placed on the opposite side of the bridge, to provide support where teeth aren’t available.
Dental implants are typically considered to be one of the best long term solutions for Texas patients with tooth loss. To get more information, contact the offices of Dr. Tejas Patel.
