DENTAL IMPLANTS
One of the most exciting advances in dentistry has been the development of dental implants, and their ability to restore the natural function and appearance of missing teeth. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed within the jawbone in the area of the missing tooth. The surrounding bone integrates, or fuses, with the implant, creating a very solid foundation for a replacement tooth to attach to. A crown (usually made of porcelain to appear as a natural tooth) is then fabricated and attached to the implant. Because the implant cannot develop decay, it can be maintained throughout one’s entire lifetime with good oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups.
In addition to replacing individual teeth, dental implants can be placed in order to support a full or partial denture. This can greatly improve the quality of life for these patients, by creating much more stability during chewing and speech. Also, dental implants help to preserve bone in the areas of missing teeth. Traditionally, bone loss will continue to occur once the natural teeth are removed – which leads not only to loss of support for the denture, but changes in the facial structure. Implants supporting a denture are constantly stimulated through everyday chewing and speech, thereby signaling the bone to remain where it is at, and prevents loss. |
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