
Oral or
Dental Implants have opened the door to the 21st century in dentistry and
oral rehabilitation. They have increased the treatment possibilities for
patients and improved the functional results of their treatment. Patients
who had to compromise their esthetic appearance, chewing functionality and
nutritional intake due to complete or partial tooth loss can now be
restored back to various degrees of normal esthetics and function. Since
the commercial distribution of Dental Implants, the field of Oral
Implantology has undergone a rapid and progressive development. Many
professionals have branched off and specialized in this particular field.
What was several years ago considered to be alternative or experimental
treatment in dentistry is often considered Standard of Care now.
What
is an dental implant ?
Dental
implants are effective, natural-looking replacements for missing teeth.
They may be described as today's best alternative to natural teeth. An
implant is a metallic object that is inserted into your jawbone to act
like a natural tooth-root. It integrates with the jawbone to give a firm
support to the artificial tooth or bridge that it will support. They are
an exciting option that has changed the lives of many people. They can be
the foundation on which an attractive smile may be built.

An implant
may be indicated if you have missing teeth and it is not possible to give
you a fixed bridge due to technical reasons like inadequate bone or tooth
support. It may also be a good choice for people not comfortable with
dentures.
At first we
will evaluate your mouth to check whether you are a good candidate for
implants. We will will gather information about your dental and medical
history, examine your mouth and take x-rays. Then we will discuss the
results of the evaluation with you and and give you any further
information you need to help you decide if you should have a dental
implant. Models and x-rays of your teeth and jaws are made so as to decide
where to place the implants.
Risks and
complications are similar to other surgical procedures and include
bleeding or infection. We will discuss risks specific to your implant,
such as sinus problems and numbness from nerve injuries. If the implant
fails, it may be removed or redone, or you may have to go back to wearing
dentures again.
You are a
good candidate for an implant if you have enough jawbone that is dense
enough to support an implant and your gums are healthy. Any medical
conditions you may have also may influence this decision.
The
Implant Process
.The
sequence of events with respect to implant reconstruction with Rootform
Implants can be roughly divided into two phases:
* Surgical Phase
* Prosthetic Phase
The Surgical Phase includes everything that is concerned with getting
the implant into or onto the bone and getting it ready for the prosthetic
phase.
The Prosthetic Phase includes everything that is necessary to put a
tooth or teeth on top of the implant(s).
Once the
implant is placed into the bone it will need to remain there for a few
months unused, in order to allow the bone to grow around it and secure it
tightly; this process is known as Osseointegration. (Although, some
research is now supporting evidence that under certain circumstances
implants can be used prosthetically right after placement)
Osseointegration is a fairly natural and usually successful process.
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