What Is a Dental Implant?

Whether it is due to a tooth decaying to a point where it is no longer viable, or an accident while playing sports, there are times where a tooth may go missing, or may need to be removed. Once this happens, different options need to be considered to replace the tooth. After all—you don’t want to leave a gap in your gorgeous smile!

One very popular option for tooth or teeth replacement is dental implants.

What Are Implants?

Having a dental implant placed is a common procedure when a tooth or teeth are lost. Essentially, an implant is a new tooth that is placed by installing a titanium rod into the jawbone, which is then attached to an artificial tooth utilizing an abutment.

The Reasons for Implants

Because there are different options for tooth or teeth replacements, many patients wonder why implants may be the best option for them and their needs. Implants are an excellent option if you want to restore your smile, while also strengthening your bite. There are a few different reasons for going with a dental implant, and those reasons include:

• Improved Bite and Ability to Chew
• Ensuring Better Oral Health
• Prevention of Tooth Migration
• Improved Self-Esteem
• Maintaining the Integrity of the Jawbone

While implants have a plethora of benefits, it’s important to note that they are not for everyone. If there is damage to the integrity of the jawbone, implants may not be an option.

Different Types of Implants

There are a couple of main types of implants that can be installed, for different needs of the patient. One type of implant is called an endosteal implant. This form of implant involves a rod being directly installed into the jaw. Another type of implant is a subperiosteal implant. This implant involves the installation of a fixed metal frame, that attaches to the jawbone. Both can be very effective at keeping the new tooth or teeth in place.

The Installation Procedure

As was mentioned above, not all patients are candidates for dental implants. Because of this, the installation procedure begins with a visit to your dentist. There, your dentist will take a look at your teeth, and your jaw. If they decide that your jawbone is strong enough, they will begin working on the procedure (or will refer you to a dentist that can provide dental implants). You also may have a tooth that needs to be pulled due to decay. If only the tooth is damaged, implants may be an option.

Initially, the rod or frame is installed into your jawbone. Afterwards, a few months are given for the gums to heal. Once the gums are healed, a second surgery is performed to connect a post to the implant. From there, the tooth (or teeth) are placed.

Dental implants can help to ensure better oral heath, more comfort eating and higher levels of self-esteem. If you are missing a tooth or teeth, speak with your dentist about having an implant installed.

Contact Meadowdale Dental Clinic

We offer a variety of Preventative, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dental Procedures including Dental Implants focusing on long term relationships built on trust. Contact Meadowdale Dental today at (425) 742-9609 or contact us via our contact form.

Interested in learning more about dental implants? Here's more information about the dental implant process.