Is there another way I can have a tooth replaced other than a bridge?

Yes. Dental implants can provide artificial teeth that look natural and feel secure. Dental implants can also be used to attach full or partial dentures. Implants, however, are not an option for everyone. Because implants require surgery, patients must be in good health, have healthy gums, have adequate bone to support the implant and be committed to meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits. If you are considering implants, a thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine if you would be a good candidate.

What is involved in placing implants?

First, surgery is performed to place the anchor. Surgery can take up to several hours, and up to six months may be required for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold it in place. Some implants require a second surgery in which a post is attached to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. With other implants, the anchor and post are already attached and are placed at the same time.

After the gums have had several weeks to heal, the next step is begun. The artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step can take one to two months to complete.

Implant surgery can be done either in a dental office or in a hospital, depending upon a number of factors. A local or general anesthetic may be used. Usually pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed. Your dentist will give you instructions on diet and oral hygiene.

About dental implants

Dental implants are an excellent option for many patients. When you lose teeth, or even just one tooth, your ability to speak and eat is often negatively affected. Many people are uncomfortable with dentures or bridges, as they do not fully replace the appearance or function of natural teeth.

As a result of these issues, more dentists are recommending, and patients are choosing, dental implants. Long an accepted treatment in Europe, implants are becoming more popular in the United States as a permanent solution to missing teeth. Many dentists and patients now consider dental implants to be the treatment of choice for many dental situations.

If your dentist has recommended an implant, you probably have questions. This may help to answer some of them, but be sure to ask your dentist or your hygienist about any other questions or concerns that you may have.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant acts as an artificial tooth root. The actual implant is a small metallic cylinder, or screw, that substitutes for the natural tooth root. Inserted surgically into the jaw bone, it provides a stable base upon which a crown or denture can be anchored. But unlike conventional bridges or dentures, dental implants feel and act more like your own natural teeth.

What is the advantage of an implant?

Most people with dental implants say they feel like natural teeth. Compared to conventional dental treatment, implants can also provide improved speaking and chewing ability, elimination of pain, and in some cases, enhanced appearance.

People who have lost one or more teeth may be candidates for dental implants. Dentures can often fit poorly, because once the natural teeth are gone, the jawbone begins to shrink and change shape. This can result in discomfort, pain, impaired chewing and difficulty in speaking. Dental implants allow an artificial crown, bridge or full denture to be firmly attached to them, creating stability and better function.

How successful are dental implants?

Dental implants are designed to be permanent. Dental implants are among the most successful procedures in medical/dental replacement (such as knees, hips, etc.). Long term clinical success rates are well over 95%.

There are numerous factors related to long term success. It is important that the patient maintains good oral hygiene, returns for dental checkups, and informs the dentist of any new medical condition that might affect the teeth, gum tissue or jaw bone.

Initial healing is a key factor contributing to long term success of a dental implant. For example, grinding the teeth can cause problems with the implant bonding with the bone.

Is the surgical procedure painful?

Most implant patients report that the discomfort is far less than they expected and is much like having a regular tooth extracted. And although every patient is different with regard to pain, most patients are made very comfortable with minimal pain medication.

What is the procedure like?

The implant process is usually done in two steps. In the first procedure, the implant is placed in the jaw, which can be done with local anesthetics (just like a tooth extraction). The patient will have a few sutures in his/her gum tissue to help the area heal and help the implant stabilize in the jaw. The dentist will provide the patient with a temporary solution until he or she is ready for the second procedure.

After three to six months, the second procedure takes place. The time in between allows the bone to grow to the implant to hold it in place. During the second procedure, the dentist places a post into the implant to hold the artificial tooth or teeth. The teeth are custom designed to the patient’s exact mouth shape and size, ensuring comfort and proper function.

Does age make a difference?

Age is not the most important factor when considering implants. Overall health and quality of life are of primary concern. In the early 1940s and 1950s implants were originally designed for the aging patient with total tooth loss. Today implants are placed with high success rates in young people with sports injuries or congenitally missing teeth. Patients in their nineties also have been treated successfully with implants. Age is not a major factor as to whether or not you may be an implant candidate.

How do I find out more?

If you have further questions about dental implants, ask your dentist. We want to ensure that you completely understand and are comfortable with this treatment option.