Missing teeth can have a major impact on appearance, ability to chew, and overall health.
Throughout history, there have been efforts to find suitable replacements for lost teeth.
Since 2,600 B.C. cultures have tried to replace lost teeth with human or animal teeth.
Perhaps the most famous and well-known historical case of tooth replacement is that of George Washington. His first set of dentures
was made of wood and a later set was made of hippopotamus tusk. Over time, many materials have been tried. Dentists first began to
use porcelain for natural-colored teeth about 100 years ago.
The first dental implant was recorded in France in 1807 and consisted of a molar implant with a gold root.
The science known as implantology has made vast improvements in both technique and the materials used for implants.
Some of the more recent types of implants even have built-in-shock absorbers!
How do modern dental implants work?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root. An implant consists of two major parts: an artificial tooth crown (prosthesis)
and an underlying permanent anchor (implant) to which the prosthesis is attached. The implant is surgically placed on top of or within the jawbone,
and the prosthesis is attached to the anchor. The prosthesis fits right into the gumline for a natural appearance.
The anchor can be designed for one or more individual teeth, a partial denture, or a full denture.
Implantation surgery - what to expect?
Your Exam
- Your dental professional will first assess you carefully to determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implantation.
The assessment includes a thorough dental history and examination as well as a medical history.
- X-rays and other imaging methods, such as computed tomography (CT scan), are used to assess bone and other underlying structures.
- A dental implant consists of two major parts: an artificial tooth (or teeth) and an anchor. A post is used to connect the two.
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The Implantation Process
Your dentist will tell you how to prepare for the surgery to place the implant in your jaw. Be sure to follow all of his or her instructions to ensure success
of your implant. Often, the procedure can be done in a dental office under local anesthesia.
After you arrive at your dentist’s office, you may be asked to rinse your mouth with an antiseptic. You may also receive medication to relax you or to make you
drowsy. Your gum and jawbone are numbed with an anesthetic.
An incision is made in the gum and a hole is created in the jawbone for the implant. The anchor is then placed into the hole either by twisting or gently tapping.
The incision is stitched closed. Sometimes, the abutment (connecting piece that joins the prosthesis to the anchor) is also placed at this time.
After the surgery, teeth cannot be attached immediately to the anchor. A three to six month wait is necessary to allow bone tissue to grow on and around the anchor,
attaching it tightly to the jawbone. That process is known as osseointegration.
Your dentist may recommend a temporary denture to be worn during the waiting period.
Depending on the type of anchor used, posts (for the attachment of teeth) may already be present. If not, a second minor surgical procedure will be necessary to
attach posts to the implant.
The final restorations (prostheses or crowns) will be placed on these posts. Once gums have healed, posts are attached.
What are the risks associated with dental implant surgery?
Any surgical procedure has some risk. Dental implant surgery is no different. Some of the risks and complications include: bleeding, infection,
pain, swelling, and inflammation of the gums. Injury to the adjacent teeth may also occur. The possibility of long-term adverse effects is low, but in rare instances,
nerve or sinus injury may occur, or the implant may fail (the jawbone does not fuse to the implant). Your dentist can tell you more about the risks and complications
of implant surgery.
Who should consider dental implants?
Dental implants are intended for persons who have lost one or more of their natural teeth and are not happy (or cannot tolerate) dentures or other options.
Most people who have lost teeth can have successful implants.
If you’re considering dental implants you should have healthy gums and sufficient underlying bone. In addition, you should be in good general health.
Age is not a drawback. Implants have been successful in many children as well as very old patients.
Because the total treatment time can range between several months and a year or more, you must be highly motivated to see the process through.
How long will a dental implant last?
The length of time that implants will last depends not only on the skill with which they are placed, but also on the condition of the underlying bone and soft tissue.
During your evaluation, your dentist will determine whether you need any dental work or special procedures before the implant process begins.
Long-term success of your implant depends on meticulous dental hygiene. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
The partnership between you and your dentist is crucial for maintaining dental implants.
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