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Tooth
loss can have a
far-reaching effect on your dental health and personal appearance.
When you lose one or more teeth, your remaining teeth can drift
out of position. This can lead to a change in the bite, the loss
of additional teeth, decay and gum disease.
Dental
implants can be an
effective method to replace one tooth or several teeth. Each
implant consists of a metal anchor that is inserted into the
jawbone (the implant), and a protruding post (abutment),
which is outfitted with an artificial tooth (crown).
Implants can also support a bridge, replace a partial denture or
secure a denture. The process requires surgery and may take up to
a year to complete.
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In the first
procedure under anesthesia, a metal anchor (implant),
or artificial root, is placed into the jawbone. Bone
grows around the anchor. This takes about three to
six months. |
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| Next, a
"healing" cap is placed when the implant is uncovered. |
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Then, the
healing cap is removed and a metal post (abutment),
may be attached to the anchor.
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| An impression
or mold is made of the abutment, and the surrounding
teeth. |
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When
your gums and jawbone have healed, an artificial tooth (crown)
is constructed, then screwed or cemented to the
post. Fitting your new tooth properly may take
several appointments. |
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Single
Tooth.
This type of
prosthesis is used to replace one or two missing teeth. Each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant.
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Complete
Denture.
This type of
prosthesis replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower
jaw. The number of implants varies, depending
on the type of prosthesis you choose.
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Bridge.
This type of prosthesis can replace two
or more teeth. It is the most commonly performed implant
procedure, and may require only two or three implants.
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