Dental Implants and Implant Crowns
More people are getting dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a long-term solution to missing teeth that is embedded in your jawbone, like your natural teeth. Plus, unlike fixed bridges, flippers, or removable dentures, dental implants will not affect adjacent healthy teeth or lead to bone loss in the jaw. If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Dental implant surgery is best performed by a trained specialist. A specialist has the specific education and training in the complexities of the bone, skin, muscles and nerves involved to ensure you get the best possible results. A study1 suggests greater implant success rates when performed by a dental specialist.
Implants are made of titanium metal that blends with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. There is no shortcut to get around that process, and it usually takes several months once the implant is put into your jawbone.
The implant is a post that replaces the missing root. Another small post (abutment) is attached to the top of the implant, which protrudes through the gum and provides a stable anchor for a crown.
For most patients, the placement and restorations of implants involves three stages, and usually, the entire process takes about six months.
Fist Stage - the titanium post that replaces your missing root is placed into your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone.
Second Stage - the implant is partially exposed then a small support post (abutment) is attached.
Third Stage - the dental implant crown is custom design in house and placed by your specialist. The termed a screw-retained implant crown, is a crown placed directly into the dental implant (without an abutment) and allows the prosthodontist to remove the crown for cleaning.
_______________________________________________________________________________
1. http://jada.ada.org July 2014