Dental implants are biocompatible prosthetics that are used to replace the root systems of teeth. These prosthetics can last a lifetime, too. They provide a lifelike base for dental crowns, bridges, and even dentures so that patients can enjoy optimal oral function and a renewed appearance.
How Dental Implants Work
Unlike other tooth replacement options, a dental implant addresses the loss of a tooth’s root. This is accomplished by embedding a titanium component directly into the jawbone. Over time, the bone will fuse to the implant’s structure to hold it in place, indefinitely. Then, restorations like crowns or prosthetics like bridges or dentures are attached to abutments on implants to complete the tooth replacement process.
A dental implant resembles a small screw. It features a tapered end and a ridged texture. When dental implants are loaded into the jaw, their metal structure is not visible. Attaching porcelain restorations and prosthetics to dental implants are ideal for those desiring natural looking tooth replacements.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer unique advantages. Beyond providing a beautiful replacement tooth, a dental implant will support the entire oral health system.
Bone atrophy is a common concern among patients who have lost teeth. This is because the roots of teeth keep bone stimulated. Since implants function like a tooth’s root, they can help preserve bone in the jaw.
Once a person loses one tooth, their risks for additional tooth loss increase. Without support, teeth tend to migrate into empty tooth sockets. With an implant and its attached restoration/prosthetic, adjacent biological teeth have the support they require to stay in place.
Another unique advantage to having dental implants is the fact that they are easy to care for and clean. Implants and their attached restorations are cleaned the same way that biological teeth are – through brushing and flossing.
Dental implants are permanent, too. Soaking replacement teeth overnight or applying adhesives to keep implants in place is not necessary.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options, call Brend Dental to reserve a consultation with our implant dentist.
