The dental implant technology has transformed the field of restorative dentistry in the last two decades. Today it is the most widely used way to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is essentially an artificial tooth root made of high grade titanium. This artificial root is placed into the exact same area where the original tooth root had existed.
The jaw bone receives the titanium implant like a natural root, and it helps to stop the bone recession. Gradually the root integrates with the bone just like a natural root. A fabricated dental crown is placed over the top of the root to create a complete artificial tooth structure. It restores the oral functionality as well as aesthetics of the patient.
Dental implants produce very predictable results, with a very high success rate. Dentists who are experienced or specializing in dental implants may even have a 100 percent success rate. A dental implant may fail if it has been placed incorrectly, or if the bone was not sufficient in the area to provide stability to the implant. Bone grafting should be done in such a case prior to the implantation.
Dental implants do not require any special care or maintenance. It is a permanent fixture in the mouth, and the patient can treat it just like any other tooth. With good oral hygiene practices and normal oral health, a dental implant is likely to last a lifetime.
Dental implants are primarily an application to replace missing teeth. In addition, they can be used to provide firm support and stability for patients who use dentures. They are also used in the branch of orthodontics to help move teeth to their desired positions. Most dentists agree that dental implants are the best solution for missing teeth because the results are conservative, predictable and long lasting.
An ideal candidate for dental implants is a person who has a general good health, practices good oral hygiene, and is a non-smoker. Patients with a history of smoking or those who are currently smoking, or those with diseases such as diabetes and any other auto immune disorders may have a lower success rate with dental implants.
