What is a Dental Implant?
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental Implants are effective to replace missing teeth
A dental implant is a treatment option to replace missing teeth. It is an artificial tooth root made of titanium metal, inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a natural tooth. An artificial replacement tooth is then attached to the implant through a screw, with the implant acting as an anchor to hold the replacement tooth in place. Technically, a dental implant refers to the artificial tooth root placed into your jaw to hold a prosthetic tooth or bridge. However, when most people use the term "dental implants," they are referring to the combination of the implant (the artificial tooth root) and the prosthetic tooth.
Dental Implant Design
Titanium for biocompatibility and strength
The majority of commercially available dental implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal known for its strength and ability to fuse with bone. Titanium implants have been time-tested with good success over several decades. During the manufacturing process, titanium goes through several steps to become dental implants: the metal is extracted, purified, and melted with other metals to form an alloy, which is then machined into the shape of implants. It is worth noting that the design of the implant shape is crucial to ensure strength and minimize weak points for long-term function. Following machining, the implants undergo surface treatments such as acid etching, sandblasting, and coating. These treatments are critical for ensuring biocompatibility and promoting good healing. Finally, each implant is cleaned, sterilized, and packed for clinical use.
Dental Implant Types
Different types of implants for different purposes
Bone level implants: This is the most common type of implant. Its various forms include screws, cylinders or blades available from a selection of implant manufacture brands. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally used for patients who require single tooth implant or implant supported bridge.
Tissue level implants: This type of implant is placed on top of the jaw with metal framework’s posts that protrude through the gum to hold the implant in place. This type of implant is mostly used to support complete dentures allowing good soft tissue healing and hygiene, for patients who require the entire upper or lower arch to be replaced with implant supported dentures.
Implant Treatment Types
There are three types of dental implant treatments that are most commonly used:
A single tooth implant is ideal for replacing an individual missing tooth while preserving adjacent teeth and maintaining jawbone density. It involves placing a single titanium post into the jawbone and attaching a custom crown, offering a natural appearance, ideal functionality, and long term durability.
For multiple adjacent missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge provides a solution by anchoring a bridge to two or more implants, restoring function and stability while minimizing the impact on surrounding teeth. This method is more cost-effective compared to placing individual implants for each missing tooth.
In cases where extensive tooth loss has occurred, an implant-supported denture offers a comprehensive solution by securing a removable denture to multiple implants, enhancing stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. This option not only improves functionality but also helps preserve jawbone structure.