Patients have multiple options when they need to replace a missing tooth, and it’s important to investigate all of the possibilities to ensure that you choose the treatment that best meets your needs.
For example, many patients find that the advantages associated with dental implants are appealing to them. We encourage any patient who has experienced tooth loss to consult with an oral surgeon to see if this treatment may be effective in their case.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small cylinders made of biocompatible titanium, which facilitates the ability of surrounding bone tissue to form a strong, permanent bond with the dental implant’s surface.
The osseointegration process leaves a dental implant as a fixture in the patient’s jaw, much in the same way the biological tooth’s root was. As such, this is a structurally complete tooth replacement option, unlike alternatives like conventional dental bridges or dentures, which only replace the tooth’s crown.
Dental Implants: The Treatment Process
The dental implant treatment process begins with an evaluation by the oral surgeon, who will assess the quality of bone at the proposed implant site to ensure that it will support osseointegration. If your case is suitable, you can move forward with dental implant placement.
A surgical procedure is required for dental implant placement. The surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue and creates space in the underlying bone to insert the implant. The site is then sutured, and the bone will begin to work its magic of osseointegration over the next few months.
The restoration – single crown, bridge or denture – may be placed immediately after the implant placement procedure or at a later date when osseointegration is complete.
Please note that bone loss doesn’t permanently rule out dental implant placement. Patients in such cases can still get dental implants at a later time after a bone graft is performed to supplement bone tissue at the implant site.
How do dental implants outperform other tooth replacement options?
You may be wondering why choosing a structurally complete tooth replacement is so beneficial. The root-like structure of dental implants is associated with a number of advantages in contrast to standard appliances, including better:
- Durability
- Security
- Convenience
- Functionality
- Comfort
Would you like to learn more about the benefits of dental implants as a tooth replacement solution? Schedule a no-obligation consultation with our team at Commonwealth Oral & Facial Surgery.