The Versatility of Dental Implants in Tooth Replacement

Posted on: 9 July 2019

A dental implant is one of the most versatile devices in tooth replacement. The implant is a rod or screw that is positioned in the bone of the jaw to replace the roots of a missing tooth. The implant is made of titanium, which is a biocompatible metal. Thus, the body is unlikely to view it as a foreign substance that should generate an immunological response.

Within a few months of an implant's placement, the device becomes secure in the mouth. The stabilization is caused by a healing process called osseointegration. As osseointegration transpires, the jawbone cells grow around the implant to integrate with the device. With no notable space between the implant and the bone, the device is secure.

Here are a few ways that an implant can be used during a tooth-replacement process.

A Base for a Crown in a Single-Tooth Replacement

After the application of an implant, an abutment can be added to connect the implant to a crown. Additionally, the gingival tissues around the implant can be contoured in a natural-looking configuration to help ensure that the restoration is not easily discerned in the mouth. Finally, the dental crown is added, concealing the implant and the abutment.

Due to the integration of the implant with the jawbone, the device can withstand the same amount of bite pressure as a natural tooth. When you chew, the prosthetic tooth functions like your natural teeth.

A Stabilizer for a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth. The device, which includes false teeth, also includes crowns on each end that fix the bridge in place by connecting to implants or abutment teeth. 

After the bridge is fashioned from an impression of the patient's mouth, the device is placed. Prior to the placement, a bit of tooth material is removed from any bordering teeth that will be used to affix the bridge. The bridge crowns are positioned over the bordering teeth or the abutment device that has been added to a securing implant.

A Stabilizers for All-on-Fours

Some people have lost every tooth in the top or lower palate. Although a conventional full denture could be used, they may desire a more stable appliance that performs more like natural teeth. All-on-fours are false teeth that are permanently attached to four dental implants using screws. The appliance cannot be removed by the patient. Instead, a dentist removes the device periodically for cleaning.

To learn more about implants and how they can assist in your dental restoration, visit websites such as http://premierdentalgrp.com/.

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