Dental Implants

by Dr. Makhdum Kazi Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

What is Dental Implants?

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth. A dental implant is a strong, biological substance which fits exactly into the jawbone where your tooth was. The dentist places them in your jawbone where they fuse to the jawbone, where they remain permanently.

Dental implants are one of the most advanced restorative alternatives available and can replace a single tooth or bridge a large gap between teeth. Dental implants are thought to offer a solution for patients with lost teeth, missing teeth and poorly aligned teeth.

Dental implant surgery involves replacing missing teeth with a dental prosthesis that is attached to the jawbone. The solid support for your new teeth a process that requires the bone to heal tightly around the implant can take several months, so you’ll need to be patient during this time period.

If you’re happy with your natural teeth and want to replace only a few of them, dental implants are a great option. They can be used to maintain a healthy, successful smile or dramatically improve your appearance. A functional smile is essential in helping to form positive self-image and maintain social interactions.

The risks of dental implant surgery are small, but you should know what to expect before you schedule your procedure. Your dentist will explain the procedure and any possible side effects clearly, and before the day of your appointment tell your dentist if you have any health conditions that may increase your risk for complications during surgery.

How dental implant surgery is performed depends on the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. Dental implant surgery may involve several procedures. The major benefit of implants is solid support for your new teeth — a process that requires the bone to heal tightly around the implant. Because this bone healing requires time, the process can take many months. During this time, you may need to use temporary or permanent dentures or retainers to protect your new teeth. You’ll also need ongoing dental care to make sure your implants are working properly and that they stay healthy. The first step in getting a dental implant is to remove any remaining decayed portions of your natural tooth and prepare the jawbone for surgery. This may involve removing some of the bone or placing an implant that will act as an anchor for the new tooth. Implant surgery can also be complicated and expensive, so you may want to consider other options.