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Tooth loss
can have a far-reaching effect on your dental health and
personal appearance. When you lose one or more teeth, your
remaining teeth can drift out of position. This can lead to a
change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay and gum
disease. Dental implants
can be an effective method to replace one tooth or several
teeth. Each implant consists of a metal anchor that is inserted
into the jawbone, and a protruding post, which is outfitted with
an artificial tooth. Implants can also support a bridge, replace
a partial denture or secure a fixed denture. The process
requires surgery and may take up to a year to complete.
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Replace a missing tooth |
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Support a bridge |
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Secure a removable denture |
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Secure a fixed denture |
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PROCEDURES
Several steps are usually
necessary to place an implant. Depending on the type of implant,
the steps may vary. The placement of a single-tooth endosteal
implant is illustrated below:
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The first step
is completed under local anesthesia. A metal anchor, or
artificial root is placed into the jawbone. Bone grows
around the anchor. This takes about three to six months. |
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Next,
a "healing cap" is placed when the implant is uncovered. |
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Then,
the healing cap is removed and a metal post, or abutment,
may be attached to the anchor. |
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When your gums
and jawbone have healed, a crown (artificial tooth) is
constructed, then screwed or cemented to the post. Fitting
your new crown properly may take several appointments. |
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Brush and floss your implant
twice daily, just like your natural teeth. Be sure to brush the
back of the abutments and floss around the front, back and
sides. Avoid chewing on hard objects or extremely sticky food.
Proper oral hygiene will help keep your implants and your mouth
healthy. |
