Dental Implants
What is an implant?
A tooth or molar implant is an artificial root on top of which a crown or bridge can be placed. The root will be inserted in the jawbone (either in the mandible or the maxilla). An implant with more than one crown or a bridge is called a supra structure. In our lab we make any kind of supra structures.
Who places a dental implant?
Dental implants are placed by either your dentist or a periodontist. Your dentist can perform this small operation in case he or she has participated in relevant courses. The main advantage hereof is that you will have this surgery in your trusted environment. In case your dentist is not qualified, you will be referred to a dental surgeon.
Who can have dental implants?
Any healthy person can have implants. However, there are some additional conditions:
Mandible
The usual routine is to fix the root in the jawbone. Nowadays thanks to technological development it is possible to treat people with little bone structure in the jaw as well. Hereto the jawbone will be bone grafted to natural height of the original bone. Once this is achieved it is no problem to insert a crown or bridge.
Gums
The gum surrounding the remaining teeth and molars has to be healthy. If not, augmentation will not occur.
Obviously it requires serious effort from the patient to maintain a sound dental hygiene.
Treatment
After receiving (local) anesthesia, an incision in your gums will be made. As a result, your jawbone becomes visible. Then, tiny holes will be drilled in the bone, in order to provide space for the implant. After said placement, the gums will be sutured.
After treatment
In the aftermath op the surgery, the pain is usually not very strong, especially in comparison with other dental surgeries. As a standard procedure you will receive painkillers, and if necessary a prescription. It is recommendable to eat soft food for at least a week, and maybe 2 weeks. Your dentist or dental surgeon has all the relevant information you need.
Healing time
The average healing time is three to six months. During these months the implants merge with gums and jawbone. During this time the implants merges with the gums and jawbone. Normally your dentist will provide you with a provisionary crown, bridge or dentures. You will be informed in advance regarding said measure.
Final phase
After the resting period you will be ready to receive your crown, bridge or denture. Hence, after (local) anesthesia a small piece of gum will be removed, unveiling the implants. Then the covering prosthesis, i.e. crown, molar, bridge or basis for dentures will be placed.
Maintenance
Regular check-ups are very important. During these visits your dentist will thoroughly examine your gums, implants and jawbone.
(Dis-)advantages
Advantages:
Implants are an excellent substitution for dentures, as they are attached to the jawbone and therefore provide much more comfort with chewing your food. Furthermore they are a good basis for crowns and bridges.
Disadvantages:
Placement of implants is a fairly long process. Furthermore it is not the cheapest solution. Furthermore you should check with your Medicare in order to find out whether is it covered or not. Daily maintenance requires a lot of time but is a necessity in order to prevent inflammations or worse.
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