If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants offer the comfort and security of a permanent replacement that looks and functions just like your natural teeth.
Dental implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root and help to preserve the tooth-supporting bone in your jaw that naturally deteriorates when even one tooth is lost. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.
However, not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.
Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.
Because implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.
Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper long lasting care.
