Dental Implants
Dental implants are a medical device that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function like real ones. They are made up of three parts:
Implant: A post made of titanium, a metal that is compatible with the human body. The post is screwed into the jawbone and acts as a new tooth root.
Abutment: A connector that fits on top of the post.
Crown: A porcelain artificial tooth that is placed on top of the abutment.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth in a row. They have a number of advantages over dentures and bridges, including:
Durability: With good dental hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Bone loss prevention: Implants stabilize the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur when teeth are removed without replacement.
Oral health: Implants allow for easier access between teeth, making it easier to floss.
Appearance: The crown that fits over the implant is made to look like a natural tooth.
Dental implant surgery may involve a bone graft, which can be taken from the patient's own body or from a cadaver. After the graft is placed, it can take four to six months for enough healthy bone to grow to support the implant