Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw placed to mimic a tooth's root. It is inserted into the jawbone at the site of the original tooth. As time progresses, osseointegration occurs, wherein the jawbone envelops the implant, ensuring a secure placement of the screw. This process typically takes around 12 weeks, sometimes longer depending on the quality of the bone.
To replace the missing tooth in the mouth, an artificial tooth, known as an implant crown, is affixed to the dental implant screw. The implant crown is crafted to harmonize with the adjacent teeth in both shape and color.
Implant Steps
Planning Phase
Before initiating any treatment, comprehensive documentation is collected to assess the suitability of implants for your specific case. This documentation typically involves the use of study models and a three-dimensional X-ray called Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). These records play a crucial role in the planning process, helping determine the optimal treatment plan for you by specifying the type of implant, as well as its diameter and length.
Surgical Step
A gum flap is elevated, and an osteotomy socket is created in the bone to accommodate the implant. The implant is then precisely positioned in the jawbone, and its stability is assessed by measuring the insertion torque. If the torque is high, the implant undergoes a 12-week integration period, which may be extended if the torque is low.
Prosthetic Step
Following the completion of osseointegration, the implant is uncovered, and a dental impression is obtained, which is then sent to the dental laboratory for the creation and design of the new crown. Upon its return, the new crown is affixed securely onto the implant.
Implant Bridges
Dental implants have the capacity to replace multiple teeth simultaneously. This is achieved through the installation of an implant bridge, wherein two or more implant screws are inserted into the bone and linked together by a bridge composed of adjoining crowns.
Implant Supported Dentures
An "implant-supported denture" refers to a complete denture that replaces all teeth in a single jaw and is securely anchored in position by dental implants.