What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial roots that are surgically inserted into your jaw. Once they are in place, Dr. Kurzweil uses them to mount a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are the gold standard for restoring missing or damaged teeth.
Why would I get dental implants?
If you have been feeling self-conscious about a tooth that is damaged or missing, dental implants are a perfect solution. Dental implants are a great long-term option for restoring the natural appearance of your teeth; plus, they are designed to resemble and function like your real teeth. Implants can easily last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. What’s more, dental implants allow you to lose the insecurity of worrying about the appearance of your teeth or being concerned that dentures or other types of replacement teeth may move or fall out while doing certain activities.
Candidates for dental implants must have relatively good general and dental health. The implant must also be supported by an adequate jaw bone.
What types of dental implants are there?
There are two basic types of dental implants to choose from. Which type you get will depend on the condition of your jaw bone.
Endosteal, or in the bone, implants are the most common type. Your dentist will surgically install a range of screws, blades, or cylinders into your jawbone in order to attach replacement teeth.
Subperiosteal, or on the bone, implants are used in patients who cannot wear traditional dentures due to inadequate bone height or structure. These implants are installed on top of the jawbone. The associated metal frame goes into the gum to hold artificial teeth.
What is the process of installing dental implants?
The process of installing dental implants would first involve surgically implanting the artificial roots into the jawbone. Afterward, your dentist may recommend you eat soft foods and soups while healing. Over a period of weeks or months, the bone begins to heal around the implant. Some patients can get implants all in one visit while others must wait until the bone heals. Next, the artificial tooth or teeth are attached to the implant.
