When it comes to replacing your damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are a great solution. They are artificial tooth roots that provide a foundation for your replaced teeth. Unlike dentures, crowns, or bridges, they are fixed in your jawbone, offering the most permanent solution.

To clarify further, a dental implant is basically a screw-like metal positioned in the root of the missing tooth. Once the metal is in place, an artificial tooth or crown that looks like your other teeth is placed right on top of the metal. Similarly, dental implants can also be used as foundations or bases for bridges or dentures. They can be used to replace a single tooth or a set of teeth.

Components of Dental Implants

Dental implants comprise of three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. As mentioned earlier, the implant is the primary screw that permanently attaches to your jaw, providing a firm grounding for your new teeth.

The abutment acts as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth. It’s a permanent but removable holder of a tooth or a set of teeth. Finally, the crown is the replacement tooth made of porcelain or zirconium. This is the only part others can see and it is made to be durable and suit your face.

When Dental Implants May be Right for You

Dental implants can be used in a variety of situations to fill different kinds of treatment needs. If you are missing one or more teeth, and your jawbone has reached maturity, implants may be a possibility for you. The Dentist may see if you have enough bone to secure the implants or they may determine whether or not a bone graft is necessary. The dentist will also need to know if you have healthy oral tissue, and whether or not your health will affect bone healing. The many different factors involved may affect the length of the process and the treatment plan you will need, if you and your dentist agree that you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Preparing for the Process

If you and your dentist decide on Dental Implants, there are a few things that may be helpful in preparing for the process. Many times the Dentist begins with a thorough dental exam or x rays, and maybe even models made of your mouth structure. The Dentist might review your medical history, and ask questions about current medication to ensure that you are a good candidate for dental implants. After gathering any helpful information about you, the Dentist may offer a treatment plan. This type of treatment plan would account for your needs and situation, in seeking a healthy solution to your dental needs.

It is important to discuss the treatment involving dental implants with your dentist before making any decisions. He or she will be able to determine whether dental implants are right for you. Come into our ElCampo office to find out how we can help you decide the best course of action for your oral health.