What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a common form of treatment for those patients that have suffered from tooth loss. Dental implants are a permanent form of tooth replacement, and have taken the place of dentures and partials for many that have received them.

Dental implants are surgically positioned into the jawbone. They consist of a metal post or a frame that is placed into the bone of the jaw. The tooth is then attached to the post or frame to provide you with a permanent tooth structure.

There are many reasons why a person may choose to have dental implants put in place. Some people are not simply not comfortable with the though of dentures, partials, or bridges. For others, these more traditional methods of tooth replacement cause a great deal of discomfort or are not even possible due to certain conditions. In this case, dental implants are the perfect solution.

Dental implants are extremely secure, which is something that most recipients find quite appealing. They do however, require an extra level of care in order to be maintained. Dental implants can only be inserted in those patients that have healthy gums and a healthy bone structure to their jaw. The bone and tissue in your mouth must remain healthy in order to keep the implants in place. Proper oral hygiene is key to being able to keep your dental implants in place.

There are two types of dental implants available that are considered to be safe by the American Dental Association. These are endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are implanted directly into your jaw bone. Subperiosteal implants consist of a frame that is placed on the jawbone just below your gum tissue.

Dental implants last for a very long time, generally from 10 to 20 years, providing you are able to maintain proper oral health. You dentist may recommend one type of implant over the other due to conditions within your own mouth.