Most people are aware that a dental implant serves as a replacement for a missing tooth or a missing tooth root. The implant, which is made from titanium, is a screw that is inserted under the gum and into the bone of the upper or lower jaw.
In 2 to 4 months, the implant and the bone will fuse together, creating an anchor for the new tooth. When the jaw has healed from the placement of the implant, the post will be inserted into the implant and the dentist will begin the process of fabricating the crown that will be placed atop the post. When the fabrication of the crown is complete, it will be secured to the post and the vacant spot in your smile will be filled.
Implants have become a popular solution for patients who have lost a tooth to decay, or lost a tooth because of damage sustained in an accident. As implant technology advances, it’s becoming harder to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth. Implants look and function like natural teeth and reduce the likelihood that patients will experience bone loss in their jaw. It can also reduce the potential for periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
Implants can be used as a substitute for a bridge or a denture because an implant replaces only the tooth that is missing. A traditional bridge uses adjacent teeth as abutments to support the bridge with a false tooth, or pontic, in between. A denture is generally used when more than a single tooth has to be removed.
Keeping your implant clean is no different than keeping your natural teeth clean, so brushing twice a day and flossing regularly should be maintained.
