Implant Prosthetics
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (usually titanium) that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support. They are permanent and stable. With the look and feel of natural teeth, implants are a good solution for tooth loss.
How do they work?
Strategically placed, implants can then be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth. More notably, implants are an excellent way of replacing a single or several missing teeth, offering many advantages over removable partial dentures and/or fixed bridgework.
Can anyone receive dental implants?
Talk with Dr. Goldy about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates.
What can I expect during this procedure?
There are two phases involved in implant dentistry. First, Dr. Goldy collaborates with excellent dental surgeons who prepare the implant site and place the implants in the bone. Besides local anesthesia, nitrous oxide and intravenous sedation can be administered to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Post-operative pain medication and antibiotics are usually prescribed after the surgical procedure. The second phase is the restorative phase: Dr. Goldy precisely fabricates the crowns and/or bridgework that is affixed to the dental implants. The results are often astounding, making the time and financial investment well worthwhile.
How long does the process take?
The process can take up to nine months to complete. Technology, however, is trying to decrease the healing time involved. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the screws and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months.
What is the success rate of implants?
The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth. The success rate is about 95 percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and 85 percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw.
How do I care for implants?
Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Dr. Goldy will give you specific instructions about how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure you retain healthy gums.
Original source: Library of the Academy of General Dentistry