Dental implants are titanium or ceramic posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. They provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth and mimic natural teeth in function and appearance, enhancing oral health and restoring smiles.
Replace the Root Structure
of Your Missing Teeth
Dental implants are advanced dental solutions that replace the root structure of missing teeth. Made from biocompatible titanium or ceramic, these posts are surgically implanted into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong, stable foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants mimic natural teeth in both appearance and function, providing a permanent and durable solution.
Dental Implants Can
- Replace one, several, or a complete arch of missing teeth
- Allow you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort
- Eliminate the mumbling or slurring caused by missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures
- Provide a natural look and feel, closely resembling your natural teeth
- Help you smile more freely and feel better about your appearance
- Prevent bone loss and maintain the structure of your face
- Provide a long-lasting solution that can last a lifetime with proper care
- Provide a secure fit without the slipping or movement associated with dentures
- Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting and maintain proper alignment
- Allow easier access between teeth, enhancing overall dental hygiene
- Eliminate the discomfort and sores caused by removable dentures
Components of Dental Implants
Implant
The implant post is a small screw made of either titanium or ceramic that is surgically placed into your jawbone. This post acts as a root, providing a stable foundation for your new tooth. Over time, the post integrates with the bone. Titanium is renowned for its strength and biocompatibility, while ceramic offers a metal-free alternative with excellent aesthetics.
Abutment
The abutment is a connector piece that attaches to the top of the implant post. This component protrudes slightly above the gum line and serves as the link between the implant post and the restoration (artificial tooth). The abutment ensures a secure and stable fit for the crown or other dental prosthetics, providing a solid base to which the restoration can be affixed.
Restoration
The restoration is the visible part of your dental implant, designed to look and function like your natural tooth. This component can take the form of a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your specific dental needs. A crown can replace one tooth, a bridge or partial denture can replace multiple missing teeth, and full-arch dentures can replace a complete arch of teeth.
Do Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?
Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The titanium or ceramic implant posts integrate with the jawbone, providing a durable foundation. However, the longevity of implants also depends on factors like oral hygiene, overall health, and regular dental check-ups. While the implant itself can last a lifetime, the attached crown or prosthetic may require replacement over time due to normal wear and tear.
Types of Dental Implants
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. These implants are surgically placed directly into your jawbone. They are typically made of titanium and shaped like small screws. Once the surrounding gum tissue heals, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the post. Endosteal implants are ideal if you have sufficient healthy jawbone to support the implant.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone. This type is typically used if you do not have enough healthy jawbone for an endosteal implant and cannot or prefer not to undergo a bone augmentation procedure. The implant consists of a metal frame fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone, and artificial teeth are attached to the protruding posts.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are less common and more complex than endosteal and subperiosteal implants. They are used when there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw, and bone augmentation is not an option. Instead of being placed in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma). This type of implant provides a secure foundation for upper jaw restorations and is often used in patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw.
Your Complete Dental Implant Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment
During the initial consultation, Dr. Sohail Ebrahimi and our team will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. This includes taking digital X-rays and 3D scans to assess your jawbone density and determine the best placement for your implants. We will discuss your medical history, review any medications you are taking, and talk about your expectations and goals for the procedure. This is crucial for creating a personalized treatment plan.
Step 2: Treatment Planning and Preparation
Your treatment plan includes the type and number of implants required, the timeline for each stage of the process, and any preparatory procedures needed. If you have insufficient jawbone density, you might require bone grafting or sinus lift surgery to create a stable foundation for the implants. These procedures ensure the success and longevity of your implants. We will also discuss sedation and anesthesia options to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery
On the day of your implant placement surgery, you will be made comfortable with local anesthesia or sedation, depending on your preference and the complexity of the procedure. Dr. Ebrahimi will make small incisions in your gums to expose the jawbone. Using precise surgical techniques, the implant posts (titanium or ceramic) are then placed into the jawbone. Once the implants are securely positioned, the gums are stitched closed, covering the implant posts.
Step 4: Osseointegration and Abutment Placement
After the implant placement surgery, a healing period of several months is necessary for osseointegration to occur. During this time, the implants will gradually fuse with the jawbone. You will have follow-ups to monitor the progress and ensure healing. Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgery is performed to attach the abutments. The abutments are connectors that protrude through the gums, providing a base for the final restorations.
Step 5: Restoration and Final Placement
The final step in your dental implant process is the placement of the restoration. This involves creating custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures that match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Impressions of your teeth are taken to fabricate these restorations with precision. Once ready, the restorations are securely attached to the abutments. Dr. Ebrahimi will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and natural appearance.
Why Choose the Dental
Implant Solutions Center?
Dental Implant Solutions Center is dedicated to transforming your smile and improving your quality of life through state-of-the-art dental implant procedures. Led by Dr. Ebrahimi, our expert team uses the latest technology to ensure optimal results, whether you need a single tooth replacement or a full arch restoration. With the help of dental implants, you can regain your confidence, enjoy your favorite foods, and speak clearly. Schedule your consultation today.
