subject: Advantages of Dental Implants [print this page] Author: Erich Shrefler Author: Erich Shrefler
Understanding the advantages of dental implants is as simple as understanding what they are and how they function. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth when there is sufficient supportive structure to hold the implant in place. Dental Implant Process A dental implant is used to replace a missing tooth. The process for a successful implant hinges on the strength and health of your gum and periodontal tissue, including your: Jaw bone Blood supply Cementum Gums The implant itself is a small titanium post which is inserted directly into the bone material of your jaw. It is important that your bone and gums be healthy so that they will grow in around the post, cementing it in place and treating it exactly like the roots of your teeth. Because surgical titanium is used, there is no threat of allergic reaction or rejection of the material, however, if you do not have sufficient healthy support structures, the post cannot be supported and may further weaken the surrounding area. In some cases, a bone graft may be used to strengthen your jawbone before an implant is placed. After the implant is inserted and the bone and gum tissue grow in around it sufficiently, a dental crown is used to cover the post. Dental crowns can be created with different materials, but the most popular is porcelain, which is extremely resilient and can be shaped and colored to perfectly match the surrounding natural teeth. Because dental porcelain can match the color and luster of your enamel, it is an ideal restorative material for any type of dental repair or reconstruction, including dental veneers. Dental Implant Benefits If you have lost a tooth, you should have it replaced as quickly as possible so that the surrounding teeth do not begin to shift alignment and push together. While dental bridges can replace missing teeth, dental implants have several benefits. Dental implants can be cared for exactly like your normal teeth. You can brush them like you would your natural teeth but more importantly, unlike dental bridges, you can floss around dental implants, allowing you to maintain healthier gums as well as teeth. Additionally, dental implants have equal if not greater resilience than your natural teeth. Though the porcelain may wear at the same rate as your surrounding teeth, the post itself will not weaken from exposure to plaque or bacteria like natural roots would. The surrounding bone and gums may still be affected, though, so proper oral hygiene remains important.About the Author:
If you are in the Toronto or Mississauga areas of Ontario and would like to learn more about dental implants, please visit the website of Willow Dental Associates today.