*Dental Implants* What is a Dental Implant? A dental implant is a small titanium screw or cylinder, which is inserted in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. When the bone attaches firmly to the implant (osseo integration) a replacement tooth can be secured to the top of the implant. This new tooth can look, feel and perform just like a natural tooth. Dental implants are an ideal option for people to replace a lost tooth due to periodontal disease, injury, or some other reason. While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support. Dental implants are so natural looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth. Perhaps you hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth. Maybe your dentures don't feel secure. Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is good news! Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! Under proper conditions, such as placement by an experienced dentist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants. What Dental Implants Can Do? Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth. Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture. Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

What are the benefits of dental implants? Dental implants are more comfortable than dentures because there is no slipping or movement. When teeth are missing, the surrounding bone begins to shrink which makes it hard to secure dentures. Dental implants can help maintain the shape and structure of the jaw bone. Dental implants can eliminate the use of denture adhesives that must be re-applied throughout the day. You don't have to cover your mouth when you laugh or smile or fear that your denture will pop out when you eat, laugh, talk or smile. Dental implants suit any age group. Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence

What is involved in the implant process? After a consultation and discussing possible alternatives, the dentist will assess the possibility of providing implant treatment. X-rays will be taken and impressions for models may also be taken. A treatment plan will then be given to you informing the sequence of treatment and the cost. The following steps will be discussed with you by your dentist: Step one: The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top if the bone. The gum is then secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it attaches to the bone (osseo integration). Step two: The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension call a post, to the implant. the gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Step three: Once healed, a crown for the implant can be made. The crown has a size, shape, colour and fit that will blend with your other teeth. The replacement crown is constructed by a specialist dental laboratory. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post. Following the completion of the implant treatment, patients need to clean thoroughly around the implant. A review will need to be carried out so that the health of the soft tissue and bone levels can be checked.

Dental implants are an ideal option for people to replace a lost tooth due to periodontal disease, injury, or some other reason.

What Dental Implants Can Do?