What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed on a person's upper or lower jawbone by a trained dentist. Dental implants serve as a substitute or replacement tooth root, while a dental prosthesis (which is applied at the end of the dental implant process) acts as the actual replacement tooth.
Intended to replace the root of a missing tooth, implants can serve to provide an anchor for various types of existing dental prosthesis such as single crowns, bridges, partial or full dentures, etc. They are designed to provide a solid, stable foundation upon which a replacement tooth can be attached.
Implants are firmly anchored into the jawbone through a process called osseointegration - a natural process where the bone and implant become integrated, thereby providing the same stability as natural teeth. This combination of state-of-the-art technology and natural integration - also known as tooth replacement therapy - makes it possible for a person to be furnished with replacement teeth that look, feel and function exactly like natural teeth.
The Solution: Tooth Replacement Therapy
Tooth Replacement Therapy should be considered if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following difficulties:
- The loss of one or more teeth;
- Impending loss of a bridge when a tooth fails;
- Unattractive changes in facial features;
- Lack of confidence when speaking or smiling;
- Difficulty chewing certain foods; and/or
- Loose denture or partial denture.
Your prosthesis can be removable or fixed or a combination of both.
A fixed prosthesis is designed so that only your restorative dentist can take it out. A fixed prosthesis can be used to replace one, several, or all of your teeth. For single tooth replacements, fixed prostheses are typically attached directly to the implant.
A removable prosthesis is designed to attach firmly to the abutments by means of a clip or other attachment; they must be taken out for cleaning. They are often used to replace a full set of teeth.
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