Humza Khizer

Understand the process and benefits of dental implants with Meri Sehat. Prioritize oral health for a confident smile.

Dental Implants

Introduction

Dental implants have revolutionized the field of dentistry by providing a reliable and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are permanent fixtures that are surgically implanted into the jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth. They have become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people seek a natural-looking and comfortable solution to replace missing teeth. 
&nbsp;

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium or other biocompatible materials that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant is in place, it fuses with the surrounding bone tissue through osseointegration. This process creates a strong and stable foundation for the artificial tooth that will be attached to the implant.

The implant constitutes the implant itself, the abutment, and finally the crown. The implant is the titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone; the abutment is the connector piece that attaches the implant to the crown; and the crown is the artificial tooth that is custom-made to match the patient&#39;s natural teeth. 
&nbsp;

Understanding Types of Dental Implants

There are 2 types of dental implants<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>: 
&nbsp;

<h5>Endosteal (In The Bone)</h5>

Endosteal is the most common type of dental implant. They look like tiny screws.

Endosteal implants are made of biocompatible substances like titanium. They are surgically placed deep within the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. One or more teeth can be secured with one implant. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Subperiosteal (On The Bone)</h5>

A subperiosteal implant&nbsp;is employed when there is insufficient healthy jawbone to support an endosteal implant.&nbsp;Compared to endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants do not require any surgical drilling; they are placed on top of the jawbone. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Who Is A Candidate For Dental Implants?</h5>

You qualify for a dental implant if you:

<ul>
	<li>Have one or more teeth that are missing</li>
	<li>Have a fully grown jawbone</li>
	<li>Have sufficient bone for implant placement or can have a bone graft</li>
	<li>Have healthy oral tissue </li>
	<li>Do not have health conditions, like <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/diabetes-type-1-and-2">diabetes</a>, that can affect the healing of the bone </li>
	<li>Do not want to wear dentures</li>
	<li>Want to improve your speech</li>
	<li>Do not smoke tobacco 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Dental implants offer numerous benefits over traditional dentures or bridges. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>They are more comfortable and natural-looking.</li>
	<li>They do not require any special cleaning or maintenance.</li>
	<li>They are permanently fixed in place.</li>
	<li>They enable patients to eat and speak with confidence without having to worry about their teeth slipping or shifting.</li>
	<li>They stabilize the bone and prevent shrinkage. When a tooth is not replaced, the bone which was holding the lost tooth in place starts to recede with age.</li>
	<li>They keep the two adjacent teeth stable. When a tooth is lost and not replaced for a long time, the neighboring teeth start to lose stability.</li>
	<li>They are a long-lasting solution to tooth loss. The material doesn&rsquo;t decay like a natural tooth.</li>
	<li>With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Almost 3 million Americans have dental implants, and this number rises by roughly 500,000 per year, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>.

Dental implant surgery is safe when a trained and experienced surgeon or dentist performs&nbsp;the procedure. Moreover, it is the only method of dental restoration that promotes the growth and preservation of the jawbone. The success rate of dental implants varies depending on where in the jaw the implants are inserted.&nbsp; But, in general, it can be 98%. Implants can be preserved for a lifetime with the right treatment<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

A thorough evaluation is required before an implant<a href="#accordion">[1]</a> <a href="#accordion">[5]</a> <a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.

<ol>
	<li>Dental Exam: An X-ray is taken and a 3-D model of your teeth and jaw are made from plaster. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Medical History: The dentist asks about any medical conditions you may have and any medication you take. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Treatment Plan: The treatment is tailored to your case according to the number of teeth that need replacement, the condition of the jaw and remaining teeth, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Anesthesia: During surgery, local anesthesia or general anesthesia is administered to manage pain. Your dental specialist will discuss what&rsquo;s ideal for you. </li>
</ol>

Depending on the type of anesthesia you receive, your dental care team will advise you on what to eat and drink before the surgery. 

Also, the use of anesthesia during surgery means you need to have someone drive you home following surgery and take care of you for the rest of the day because you&rsquo;ll still be under the effect of sedation. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="5">
	<li>Placing The Implant: </li>
</ol>

<ul>
	<li>The tooth that needs to be replaced is removed first. If the tooth had been removed some time back, then the gum is cut open to expose the jaw bone.</li>
	<li>A bone graft is used if the bone is insufficient.</li>
	<li>A hole is made in the bone according to the length and width of the implant.</li>
	<li>The implant is placed.</li>
	<li>The incision is closed by repositioning the gums and stitching them up.</li>
</ul>

The procedures for placing dental implants are typically the same for everyone. Nonetheless, a dental implant and restoration (such as a crown or bridge) may occasionally be placed by a surgeon in the same procedure. But, in the majority of cases, the dentist won&#39;t be able to put a final restoration until the implant has healed for a few months. In that case, the dentist creates a temporary restoration, which is often removable, to wear during the healing process. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="6">
	<li>Osseointegration: It will take anywhere from 2-6 months after the dental implant is placed for enough new bone growth to take place around the screw. This is known as osseointegration, which means &quot;combining with the bone.&quot; The natural jaw bone fortifies and develops around the dental implant during osseointegration, securing it in place and allowing it to serve as the artificial tooth&#39;s root. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Placement Of The Abutment: A metal extender called an abutment is frequently used to supplement the implant. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Crown Placement: The dentist takes an impression of the teeth when the healing process is finished so that the permanent replacement tooth or teeth are crafted to fit. These may be removable or fixed. </li>
</ol>

If you choose a removable tooth, it will be fixed to an abutment using a metal frame. You can remove it for daily cleaning. If you choose a fixed tooth, it will be screwed or bonded onto the abutment permanently. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="9">
	<li>Post-operative Instructions: The surgeon gives you instructions to ensure the success of your implant. It will include a prescription for antibiotics to prevent infection and strong painkillers for pain management. </li>
</ol>

Generally, the advice entails:

<ul>
	<li>All the medication should be taken as prescribed by the doctor.</li>
	<li>Avoid lifting heavy objects for 72 hours at least.</li>
	<li>Chew on the other side of your mouth. If you have implants on both sides, switching to a soft diet is better until you are comfortable with regular food.</li>
	<li>Floss and brush daily.</li>
	<li>Keep the implant site clean as directed by your surgeon. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The following signs indicate that your implant is unsuccessful<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>The implant has started to move</li>
	<li>Pus is coming from the site of the implant</li>
	<li>Pain when tapping the implant</li>
	<li>Bone loss that is progressive and rapid</li>
	<li>Gum recession around the implant</li>
	<li>Pain while chewing and biting</li>
	<li>Grinding of teeth</li>
	<li>Swollen gums</li>
	<li>Signs of an allergic reaction (swelling around the gums, loss of taste, tingling sensation) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Every surgery has risks. The risks associated with dental implants are rare and usually minor. The risks include<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>:

<ul>
	<li>Infection at the site of the implant</li>
	<li>Damage or injury to structures surrounding the implant, like blood vessels or other teeth</li>
	<li>Damaged nerve that can cause some pain, tingling, or numbness in the gums, chin, lips, and natural teeth</li>
	<li>Sinus issues , this is usually associated with upper jaw implant(s) </li>
	<li>Allergic reaction to titanium (happens very rarely)</li>
	<li>Improper placement of the implant</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Note: Before undergoing MRI or X-ray procedures, always tell your medical professionals and the imaging staff that you have dental implants. Dental implants can distort these images. However, dental implants are not associated with any adverse events that have been recorded for MRI or X-ray procedures<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. 
&nbsp;

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental implants offer a reliable and permanent solution to tooth loss that is comfortable, natural-looking, and long-lasting. Dental implants may be an excellent option for restoring your smile and confidence if you are missing one or more teeth. Consult with your dentist to determine if dental implants are right for you. 
&nbsp;

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>Dental implants are suitable for most people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. However, candidates for dental implants must have sufficient bone density and healthy gums to support the implant.</li>
	<li>The implant constitutes the implant itself, the abutment, and the crown. The implant is the titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone; the abutment is the connector piece that attaches the implant to the crown; and the crown is the artificial tooth that is custom-made to match the patient&#39;s natural teeth.</li>
	<li>Patients with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may not be good candidates for dental implants. </li>
	<li>During surgery, local anesthesia or general anesthesia are anesthetic alternatives to manage pain.</li>
	<li>Endosteal is the most common type of dental implant.</li>
	<li>The success rate of dental implants varies depending on where in the jaw the implants are inserted. But, in general, it can be 98%.</li>
	<li>A subperiosteal implant&nbsp;is employed when there is insufficient healthy jawbone to support an endosteal implant.</li>
	<li>Always tell your medical professionals and the imaging staff that you have dental implants before undergoing any MRI or X-ray procedures. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>