What Is Implant Dentistry?

December 29, 2020 | Implant Dentistry

Dental implants were invented in 1952. They are synthetic replacements for real teeth, used when the real thing gets damaged or decayed past the point of repair. Implant dentistry is the field of oral medicine that focuses on the prosthetic replacement of missing teeth. If you need dental implants, it is important to choose your provider carefully. You need a prosthodontist who is certified to install implants.

Facts About Dental Implants

Dental implants refer to prosthetics that replace missing teeth. It is a surgical solution that affixes a prosthetic tooth to the jawbone through a surgical procedure. It is the closest thing to a real tooth that is available, as it does not affect the surrounding teeth and has a high level of strength and stability. Unlike dentures, you do not remove and replace dental implants daily; ideally, the dental implant should remain in its position for the rest of your life.

The process of receiving a dental implant begins with a surgical procedure to implant an artificial tooth root after your damaged or decayed tooth has been extracted. You will visit a specialist called a prosthodontist for this procedure. The dentist will typically use a numbing anesthesia rather than putting you completely under, as this is a minor surgery. However, if you are anxious about the procedure, sedation may be an option instead.

In the two to six months following your initial procedure, the implant will fuse with the bone of your jaw (osseointegration), making it stronger. Once the implant heals, the next procedure inserts the abutment, or the piece that connects the artificial root to the denture. Finally, the prosthodontist will custom-make an implant crown to match the rest of your teeth and screw it or cement it to the abutment.

When Is Implant Dentistry Necessary?

Implant dentistry gives a patient a second chance at having the smile he or she has always wanted. It provides strong and beautiful prosthetic teeth to replace missing, damaged, cracked or decayed real teeth. It is a permanent procedure, eliminating the need to use dentures or bridges and glue every day. You might benefit from implant dentistry in any of the following situations, including dental emergencies.

  • An incident knocks out one or more teeth.
  • You have a broken or badly cracked tooth.
  • Old age causes widespread tooth decay.
  • Your mouth has a sunken appearance.
  • You have trouble chewing food due to missing teeth.
  • Your partial or complete dentures are loose.
  • You are sick of dealing with dentures.
  • You have low self-esteem due to problems with your teeth.

If a dentist cannot treat and repair your damaged teeth, he or she may recommend you to a prosthodontist to fit you with dental implants. Do not be afraid of the dental implant process. You should not feel any pain or discomfort with the anesthetics used by the specialist. The success rate for dental implants is very high, with a low rate of complications. Careful planning with your dentist and surgeon can help you achieve a successful implantation.

What to Look for in Your Dentist

Dental anxiety is common. Fear of going to the dentist, however, should not get in the way of your best smile. Finding the ideal dentist for implant dentistry can help you feel more at ease with the surgical process. The right dentist can walk you through the procedure and answer your questions along the way.

Look for someone who is trained, qualified and certified in implant dentistry. Then, ask what to expect from the procedure. Your dentist should describe what will happen, as well as list sedation options, if desired. Successful implant dentistry can restore your smile with a natural appearance, giving you back your confidence. Learn more about implant dentistry today by contacting Dental on Central at (602) 266-1776.

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