Dental Implants Specialist

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a replacement tooth root. A dentist places a dental implant into the patient’s jaw to hold a replacement tooth. Dental implants help patients bite, chew and speak normally. These sturdy and natural-looking dental prosthetics help maintain the shape and fullness of a patient’s jaw line after the loss of one or more teeth. Additionally, dental implants stabilize bones to prevent bone loss.

Most dental implants are made from strong, lightweight titanium. One benefit of using titanium is that it fuses to the bone, a process known as osseointegration, to create a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Titanium is also biocompatible, which means the body does not reject it.

What Types of Dental Implants are Available?

There are two types of dental implants: Endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are screws, cylinders or blades that dentists surgically place into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more replacement teeth. Endosteal implants are more common, as they are an effective alternative for many patients with bridges or conventional dentures.

Subperiosteal implants are metal frameworks that dentists place on top of the jaw. The framework features posts that hold the replacement tooth. Patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and who have minimal jawbone height may benefit from subperiosteal dental implants.

Who Could Benefit from a Dental Implant?

Anyone who has lost one or more teeth to gum disease, injury or another reason may benefit from a dental implant. A dental implant is more convenient and natural looking than dentures. Dental implants hold replacement teeth that blend right in with existing teeth.