If you are missing a tooth or several teeth, you may be considering some form of dental reconstruction treatment, such as dentures, fixed-bridge treatment or even dental implants.
While each has their own benefits, dental implants have the least number of negatives and so have become extremely popular with patients looking to reconstruct their smile.
A dental or tooth implant is a small titanium pillar that a periodontist places directly into the gum tissue and jawbone of the patient; titanium is a very strong metallic alloy, and possesses qualities that allow it to fuse directly onto the patient’s bone structure. This helps to provide additional support for the implant. First, a titanium screw is placed into the jawbone; then the periodontist places a small connective device called an abutment onto the top of the implant screw.
After a short period of healing time once the titanium pillar has been inserted and abutment placed, the implant dentist then places a dental crown on top of the supporting pillar. The end result is a tooth that looks, feels and behaves almost exactly like a natural, healthy tooth.
And, because the titanium pillar attaches to the jawbone through the gum tissue, it acts like an artificial tooth root; helping to stimulate the tissue and so help prevent gum tissue and jawbone degradation – a natural effect that often accompanies missing teeth.
Once the dental implant procedure is complete, the patient has a fully restored smile that can withstand much of the same treatment as a natural tooth. Unlike other dental reconstructive techniques, dental implants restore much of a patient’s biting and chewing capabilities, look perfectly natural and perhaps most importantly require no additional specialized care to maintain.
Dental implants can be cared for in exactly the same way as natural, healthy teeth and a combination of careful brushing with a good toothpaste, mouthwash and flossing – not to mention regular dental checkups – will keep dental implants, and the remaining teeth healthy so that your smile can last a lifetime.
For more information on tooth implants, contact the office of Dr. Brad Crump in Dallas Texas.