Dental Implants

The dental implant acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth and holds a replacement tooth or bridge. The process of fusion between the dental implant and bone is called "osseointegration." The use of endosseous implants to restore lost dentition has proved to be a successful treatment modality, providing the patient with near natural replacement. Implants have become the treatment of choice in many, if not most, situations when missing teeth require replacement. Many implant designs have been developed by various companies to achieve a greater degree of osseointegration.

It is important to remember that implants only replicate natural teeth and that the implant-mucosa-bone interface only approximates the natural periodontium.

Lack of cementum and periodontal ligament, less vasculature and fibroblasts, a parallel orientation of supracrestal connective tissue, and the sub gingival location of crowns make the implant structures more susceptible to the development of inflammation and bone loss when exposed to plaque accumulation or microbial invasion. The success rate obtained with dental implants depends to a great extent on the quality of oseointegration. The early identification of signs and symptoms of bone loss is, therefore, essential to prevent implant loss.

Dental Implants are fixed to the underlying bone using titanium screws.

Benefits of dental implants

• Implants can last a lifetime and do not decay
• Implants integrate into your bone and prevent the bone loss & gum recession that can occur with other tooth replacement
• Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth
• Implants don’t harm your neighboring teeth
• Dental implants don't require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.

After Dental Implants :

Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply!

After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.