A dental implant is a device that is used to restore a lost tooth. Fashioned from titanium metal, the implant has a simple structure, resembling a small screw or rod.
During the placement of an implant, the dentist passes the device through the gums and inserts it into the jawbone. Due to the biocompatibility of the dental implant material, the body does not view the device as a foreign object. Instead, the natural bone tissues actually integrate with the implant through a healing process called osseointegration. The connection between the bone and the implant stabilizes the device, making it as sturdy as the roots of a natural tooth.
Here are some of the advantages of choosing a dental implant as the foundation of your restorative application.
An Implant Rarely Fails
An implant has a nearly perfect rate of success. Once the healing process is complete, you can expect your implant to last a lifetime.
There are instances in which an implant may fail, but those occasions are rare. They include:
- Perimplantitis. Perimplantitis is a form of gum disease that occurs in the gingival tissues around the implant.
- Lack of osseointegration. If the healing process that connects the implant to the bone is interrupted or stopped, the implant may fail.
- Movement of the implant. If the implant is moved from its position in the bone by trauma or excessive bite force, the device fails.
Many implant failures are associated with other health issues that may affect the tissues surrounding the implant, such as uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, and bruxism. Thus, the underlying cause of the failure is not the actual implant.
An Implant Can Enhance the Ability to Chew
Some devices, such as unsupported dentures, may not be secure enough to allow a patient to eat and chew comfortably. Due to a lack of stability, the devices may slip about, making it difficult for patients to enjoy a wide variety of foods. Thus, the patients' eating enjoyment and nutrition may suffer.
An implant enhances the patients' ability to chew properly. The device can not only replace a single missing tooth, but it can also be used as the foundation of appliances that replace multiple teeth, such as dentures and bridges. The connection between the implants and the teeth-replacement appliances holds the appliances in place to improve the ability to chew effectively.
To learn more about dental implants and the advantages that they offer, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.
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