What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a means to recover lost function and dental short-comings. They are used in a variety of ways and circumstances including missing teeth, dentures, and bridges. They are permanent, non-removable prosthetic teeth that consist of a titanium fixture or “root”, which is implanted into the jaw and a ceramic crown (tooth) affixed to that fixture.
The procedure is usually performed in two stages. In the first stage, the titanium root is inserted into the jaw. Once the jaw has had time to heal and the bone begins to fuse around the root, the ceramic crown is placed. The crown itself is matched to the colour of your remaining natural teeth and shaped for a perfect fit.
Dental implants can either be used on their own or in combination with a bridge if you have several consecutive missing teeth. People with dentures, especially lower dentures, can also benefit with dental implants by improving their biting and chewing, resulting in increased self-confidence.
BENEFITS
- They offer the most natural look, feel, and function.
- They can help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
- They can be cared for in the same way that you would care for your natural teeth.
- They can help prevent surrounding natural teeth from shifting. Properly cared for, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
- They can improve biting and chewing.
- They can result in increased self-confidence.