Implant
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, typically made of titanium or zirconia, that is surgically placed into the jawbone to support a restorative dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, or denture. It is the most advanced, durable, and predictable solution for replacing missing or severely damaged teeth, offering superior function, esthetics, and bone preservation compared to traditional tooth replacements.
Why Dental Implants Are Used
Dental implants are employed to address tooth loss resulting from:
- Cavities: Severe decay that cannot be restored with a filling or crown.
- Periodontal disease: Loss of tooth support due to gum disease.
- Trauma or injury: Teeth damaged beyond repair from accidents.
- Congenital defects: Developmental issues leading to missing teeth.
- Aesthetic reasons: When teeth are not functioning well and compromise the patient’s smile or confidence.
Functions of Dental Implants
- Replacement of missing teeth: Whether single, multiple, or full arch replacement, implants provide functional and aesthetic solutions.
- Restoration of chewing ability: Implants function similarly to natural teeth, enabling better eating and speech compared to dentures.
- Prevention of bone loss: Implants help prevent the bone resorption that can occur after tooth loss by stimulating the jawbone, promoting the preservation of facial structure and integrity.
- Improved stability for prostheses: Dental implants support crowns, bridges, or dentures, providing better retention and comfort than traditional prosthetic options.
