Dental implants are an innovative way to replace teeth that have been lost to disease or trauma. A conventional dental implant consists of three different components, which are the implant post, the abutment, and the restoration.
Dental Implant Post
A dental implant post consists of a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone during a small surgical procedure, and it replicates a natural tooth root. Titanium is used as this metal is extremely non-reactive and integrates with natural bone very well. It would be incredibly rare for anyone to have a reaction to this metal.
Once the implant post is inserted into the jaw, it has to be left to heal for several months. Your dentist in Basingstoke will supply you with a temporary replacement tooth, so there is no need to worry about this stage of treatment. The healing process enables osseointegration to take place in the jaw, where the post becomes firmly fused in the jaw as new bone cells gradually grow on and around it. The implant post is specially treated to encourage this process. Osseointegration takes three to four months, but once it is completed your implant post will easily be able to support a replacement tooth.
Abutment
After your post has fully integrated into your jawbone, your dentist will attach an abutment. There are lots of different kinds, and the type used depends on the restoration replacing your tooth or teeth. The abutment will stick up above your gum line, providing a permanent anchor for the final tooth restoration. Your dentist will take an impression of the abutment which is used to fabricate the permanent restoration.
Restoration or Replacement Teeth
A dental implant can be used to support various types of tooth restorations. It can support a single crown, replacing just one tooth, or can be used to support a bridge. Multiple dental implants can replace multiple missing teeth, either through supporting dental crowns or bridges, or even complete dentures.
Treatment is incredibly versatile, and at the moment this is the best and most permanent way to replace lost teeth. A well planned and properly placed dental implant will have a success rate of 95% or more, and should feel very comfortable. Dental implants have been used for decades, so treatment is tried and tested and has been extensively studied to make sure it is completely safe.
Of course, the longevity of your dental implants is also down to you, as they do need to be properly cared for to prevent infection and possible failure. This is easy, as all you need to do is to make sure you thoroughly brush and floss your dental implants, keeping them free from plaque and food debris. See your dentist twice a year for check-ups and professional cleanings to keep your dental implants in tip top condition. This level of care will help ensure you enjoy the benefits of your dental implants for many years to come.