What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (synthetic material) that is surgically placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth, bridge, or removable denture. The benefit of using implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support, they are permanent and stable. Implants are a great solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth.

Implant material is made from different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue. There are different types of dental implants: The first and most common is a cylinder shaped structure placed directly into the jaw bone which replaces the natural root of a tooth. The second is used when the jaw structure is limited, therefore, a custom-made metal framework fits directly on the existing bone.

How do they work?

Implants can be used to support permanently cemented crowns and bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth in form and function. Multiple implants strategically placed can restore longer spans of missing teeth with bridges or support unstable removable dentures.

Can anyone receive dental implants?

Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may also be poor candidates..

What can I expect during this procedure?

The dental surgeon must perform surgery to place the "artificial root" into your jaw bone. The procedure is done in a surgical dental office with local anesthesia and possibly intravenous sedation. Medications may be prescribed for soreness.

How long does the process take?

The process can take up to nine months to complete. Technology, however, is trying to decrease the healing time involved. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the implants are placed surgically, the integration of the implants can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth on the implants can take up to two months.

What is the success rate of implants?

The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth. The success rate is about 95 percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and 85 percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw.

How do I care for implants?

Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums.

What is the cost of implants?

Since implants involve surgery and are more involved, they cost more than traditional bridge work. However, a strong demand and vast improvements in implant technology are making implants more affordable than ever before. Some people require bone or gum grafts that add to the cost of the implant. Portions of the restoration may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. Your dentist can help you with this process.

This and other information on dental topics are available at the American Dental Association online and the Academy of General Dentistry