Dental Implants

Dental Implants are frequently the best treatment option for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants are the solution of choice for the men and women who are missing one or more teeth, or who are about to lose teeth due to damage, decay or disease. Dental implants are artificial, self-sustaining tooth roots that are inserted into the jawbone and act as an anchor to support dental prosthetics. Rather than using adjacent teeth as anchors like fixed bridges, or resting on the gum line like removable dentures, dental implants are permanent, long-term replacements.

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant consists of three main parts: a titanium base implant, which joins with the jawbone effectively replacing the tooth root. An abutment connected to the titanium implant, which protrudes from the gum line and allows for easy connection to the dental prosthetic.  And a retaining fixture, which is socket-like in shape and attaches to the bottom of the dental prosthetic.

When all three parts are joined together, they form a natural-looking, artificial tooth. Implants feel and work like natural teeth because they are integrated with the bone. Dental implants are never removed and do not rely on other teeth for support.

Types of Dental Implants

There are two main types of dental implants, traditional dental implants and mini dental implants. Both utilize titanium alloy base implants, however mini dental implants are significantly smaller than traditional implants, and allow for the replacement of even a single tooth.

Because of their smaller stature, mini dental implants are less invasive, can be placed in fewer treatments, and often cost less than their traditional counterparts. Depending on overall oral health and the degree of damage or decay, one or both of these types of dental implants may work for you.

Effectiveness of Dental Implants

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% and can often last a lifetime with regularly scheduled dental visits and proper oral and dental hygiene. Replacing damaged or missing teeth allows adjacent teeth to remain healthy and also maintains the structure of your jawbone.