If a tooth has been
lost, or extracted, the gap can
be replaced with a bridge, denture,
or implant.
Dental implants are
titanium posts that are surgically placed into the bone.
The bone quickly grows
around the implant attaching itself to the rough outer surface.
There are no nerves inside bone therefor there should be no pain.
Once the implant has
been anchored by the bone, the implant is prepared to accept the
crown or bridge.
Crowns,
a bridge, or even dentures may be attached
to the implant. Since these must be carefully constructed
to match the opposing tooth and ensure a correct bite, several
impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to the lab which will
construct the prosthetics.
The dentist will fit
the crown over the implant; and if the fit is good, then the dentist
will cement the crown into place.
Two or more implants
are used to anchor a bridge. If the bridge fits well, then
the dentist will cement it into place.
Implants used for an overdenture are fitted with a ball screw.
This allows the denture to easily and irmly be snapped into place.
Considerations:
Implants are usually a very comfortable and are effective replacements
for teeth. They look and feel quite natural, and can be
expected to last for many years to life. Importantly, implants
will help stop resorbtion of the underlying bone, thus solving
a significant problem with dentures.