Missing teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious, affect your ability to eat and speak, and impact your overall oral health. While there are several tooth replacement options, only dental implants offer a permanent way to replace missing teeth.
Although dental implants have been used in dentistry since the 1960s, recent innovations such as digital imaging, CAD/CAM technology, and discovering new biocompatible materials have made dental implant surgery one of the most effective ways to restore your smile.
However, because of these recent developments, some patients are uncertain about receiving dental implants and wonder ‘how do dental implants work?’. A dentist that offers a free consultation can answer your questions.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant comprises a metal post, an abutment, and an artificial crown, bridge, or denture. The post is typically made from titanium for its biocompatible properties; however, many newer implant models use zirconia. The abutment is a hook or ball attachment that connects the implant post to the restoration. A porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) or ceramic crown that is custom fit to your mouth is then placed on the abutment.
If you are having more than one consecutive tooth replaced, your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge or All-on-4 dental implants to restore an entire arch. Click here to get more information.
How Do Teeth Implants Work?
Dental implants act as a root to anchor the artificial tooth in place. The dental implant procedure occurs in four stages: the initial consultation, the dental implant surgery, the abutment fitting, and the crown fitting. In some cases, the abutment may be placed at the same time as the implant post.
The consultation involves your dentist digitally examining your mouth and jawbone to assess the bone tissue’s depth and quality. They also check for gum disease signs that need to be treated before the procedure can go ahead.
At Bright Dental Group, we use CBCT technology to take 3D images for a comprehensive view of your teeth, gums, and jaws.
During the procedure, your dentist makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone. They then drill a small hole, embed the titanium post, and close the incision site.
Following your first surgery, you require three to six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, is crucial for the success of the dental implant. Specialised cells called osteoblasts produce bone tissue that binds to the surface of the titanium. The helical ridges on the screw-shaped post facilitate this process. Once osseointegration is complete, it forms a solid foundation for the abutment and crown. But it also continues to stimulate bone growth and prevent resorption to maintain the structural integrity of your jaw and face shape.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
For the best dental implant success rate, you need to be in good general health, be free from advanced gum disease, and have the right bone density or thickness to support an implant. Your dentist may suggest a bone graft to improve the quality of your jawbone, or sinus lift to make more space in the maxillary arch for a dental implant. Book a free consultation at your local dental clinic for an assessment of your jaw bone.
Restore Your Smile at Bright Dental Group
If you have missing teeth, or a tooth that needs extraction, call Bright Dental Group on (02) 4708 9691 and book a free consultation for dental implants. Speak with our experienced staff who can answer all your questions, including ‘how do dental implants work?’ and determine whether you are a candidate for this revolutionary procedure.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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