Dental implants are part of a dental treatment used to replace missing teeth. The surgeon inserts a screw-like device, called an implant post, into the jawbone, which acts as an anchor for an artificial tooth called the dental crown.
The artificial tooth or crown is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and match the original color of their teeth. It is made from ceramic and looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Dental Implants are primarily of two types:
Endosteal Implants - They are the most common type of implant that can hold one or more artificial teeth.
Subperiosteal Implants - This type of implant is fixed on top of the jawbone and is usually recommended for patients with low jawbone density and height.
The dental implant procedure varies from person to person. Its complexity will depend on factors like the number of teeth required for replacement, the location of the implant, the quality and quantity of bone, and the oral or systemic health of the patient.
Based on these factors, additional dental implant procedures may be required, such as:
Sinus Augmentation
The location of the sinuses may make it arduous for the dentist to place the implants on the upper side of the jawbone. To solve this, sinus augmentation is performed first which will include lifting the floor of the sinuses. It will allow more bone to develop to make the dental implant procedure successful.
Modifying Ridges
Some patients might have jawbone abnormalities that prevent the bone from developing properly and may hinder the dental implant procedure. In these cases, an oral surgeon has to modify the ridge of that patient. The surgeon lifts the gum to make the deformed bone visible. They will use a piece of bone or substitute to repair the deformed area, thereby improving the quality of the jawbone and preparing it for implantation.
Patients who have undergone dental implant surgery should brush and floss their teeth regularly. They need to take care of the artificial teeth the same way they do with their natural teeth.
Also, they need to attend each follow-up visit scheduled by the dentist. The dentist will ensure that the teeth and gums are healthy and the implant is healing properly. Patients also have to visit their dentist twice a year for professional cleaning.
Dental implants are the best dental procedure with a high success rate and long-term benefits. However, it is advisable to consult your dentist before considering this surgery.
At Dental Nook, Dr. James Cantua, a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, offers dental implant procedures with the help of his team of experienced dental assistants. For more information and appointments, call us at (719) 235-5885, book online, or visit Dentist in Colorado Springs CO at 13492 Bass Pro Dr Ste 110, Colorado Springs, CO 80921.
13492 Bass Pro Dr Ste 110, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
3113 w Colorado ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
