If your dentist had used dental implants rather than the more traditional fixes, you probably would still be happy with your dental restorations. If you are like most adults in our modern world, you probably have had one or more procedures that involve the placement of fillings, crowns, bridgework or root canals done to improve your dental health. It is also likely that within several years, you have experienced pain or discomfort because the dental work you had done failed or needed some type of repair.

Dental Implants Technology

Dental implant technology has been used increasingly over the past few decades, and the procedure is being constantly improved and updated. It should be noted that the most important part of the dental implant procedure is the accurate assessment and preparation that must take place before it is even begun. The dentist must carefully diagnose whether or not the patient is a good candidate for the procedure, followed by accurate measurements and preparation of the implant site.

Unlike most other types of dental restoration, the placement of dental implants is surgery and must be undertaken using every precaution available to ensure success. Some patients really are not good candidates for implants due to certain health issues or lifestyles. For instance, smokers are not typically accepted for an implant procedure because their oral tissues will not heal well. Some other people do not have sufficient bone to support an implant so they are considered a high risk for implant placement.

Dental Implant Procedures

A dental implant procedure can be used for various applications such as to secure a crown, bridgework or to securely anchor dentures. The implant device is made of titanium because this type of metal is less likely to be rejected by the human body. Titanium also has the unique ability to fuse to bone (a process called osseointegration), and this quality is partially responsible for the success of dental implants.

When a person loses a tooth or several teeth, they begin to lose the bone that supported the lost teeth. This process continues and eventually results in sunken features due to changes in the structure of the soft tissues. The placement of dental implants helps to stabilize the bone and prevent this type of loss. A dental implant procedure can help patients retain their ability to chew, smile and talk normally, a functionality that helps to preserve their psychological as well as physical well-being.

Perhaps the newest development in dental implants is the mini-implant. The fact that the device is considerably smaller than the original implant makes it much easier and faster to install in the jawbone. Mini-implants can sometimes be placed within just a few dental visits that include taking accurate measurements, placing the device and attaching the prepared crown or bridge.

People who have an interest in getting dental implants should make sure the dental professional they choose is well qualified in the field. If their dentist does not specialize in placing implants, they should contact us immediately for a consultation at 540-374-1010.