Methods of implanting various types of dental implants

A dental implant is a surgical fixture placed in the jawbone and the patient must wait for it to fuse with the bone over several months. A dental implant acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. This “artificial tooth root” serves to hold the replacement tooth or bridge in place.

The connection of a dental implant to the jawbone is the closest thing to mimicking a natural tooth. It is highly stable and in place on its own without affecting the adjacent teeth. The process of fusion between the dental implant and the jawbone is called “osseointegration.”

Dental Implant Material

Most dental implants are made of titanium, which allows them to integrate with the bone without being recognized as a foreign object in our body. Over time, technology and science have advanced to greatly improve the results of dental implant placement. Today, the success rate of dental implants is close to 98%.

Dental implants have been used in the dental industry since 1952 and are considered standard equipment for prosthetic care and, in short, act as a great replacement for missing teeth.

Dental implants are a surgical procedure that requires their fusion with the jawbone similar to natural teeth. The best part about dental implants is that they offer great stability to the teeth without affecting the other teeth.

When do you need dental implants?

You can use dental implants when there is a need to replace a single tooth or the entire upper and lower jaw set. The idea behind dental implants is to preserve the beauty of a person’s teeth while providing patients with the function of a full set of teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

There are two types of dental implants that your dentist in Toronto will recommend:

Endosteal: One of the most common types available, these dental implants are usually placed in the jawline or jawbone. They are made of titanium and are molded into small screws.

Subperiosteal: Unlike endosteal implants, these dental implants are not placed in the jawbone. They are placed under the gums or on/above the jawbone and are usually used for patients who have weak jawbone or who do not want to have bone grafting done on their jaw.

There are also a few different options that your orthodontist may recommend based on the health of your jawbone and your needs.

Immediate Dental Implants Planting Method

Here is the entire process you can expect during the implant procedure.

Extraction of the affected tooth: The affected tooth is pulled out of its position.

Bone grafting: This is the process when your jawbone is not strong enough to withstand the pressure of chewing and hence cannot support the implant. This process creates a strong base for the implant.

Placing the dental implants: Your dental surgeon will cut through the gum and expose the bone. Holes are made in the bone and the dental implant is placed.

Allowing time for the bone to grow and heal: After the implant is placed, it is now time to wait for the jawbone to grow back. This process is known as osseointegration, where the bone grows and integrates with the implant. This can take months.

Abutment placement: This minor surgery involves reopening the gum to expose the dental implant and placing the abutment where the crown of the tooth will be placed.

Replacing a damaged or missing tooth: After your mouth has healed, your dentist will take impressions of your gums and teeth to create a realistic replacement for the damaged/missing tooth.

Dental Implant Safety Measures

Dental implants rely on more than one factor, many dentists recommend that you have the following assessments done to be on the safe side:

• A comprehensive dental exam
• Review of the patient’s medical history
• Planning for treatment
• Cost of dental implant surgery

Causes of tooth loss

Many reasons for tooth loss may indicate the need for dental implants. The most common causes of tooth loss include:

Tooth decay

The main cause of tooth decay (cavities) is poor nutrition and lack of proper oral care. Without restorative treatment, a cavity-ridden tooth will continue to deteriorate, eventually leading to tooth loss.

Regular dental visits and cleanings (every 6 months) are essential to spot early signs of decay. If decay is severe, dental implants may be needed, especially in older adults (65+).

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a serious form of gum disease.

When the gums begin to recede, plaque and decay-causing bacteria can penetrate beneath the gums and cause inflammation. This eventually leads to bone loss around the jaw and teeth. As a result, teeth may become loose, fall out, or need to be extracted.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to chew and speak naturally.

Designed to look like your natural teeth and improve your self-esteem.

Reduce stress on your remaining natural teeth by providing independent support.

Preserve bone, reducing the appearance of aging.

Help prevent loss of jaw height.

Easy to clean and care for.

With proper care, implants can last between 15 and 25 years. They also typically last longer than bridges and dentures.