How Dental Implants Work and Function Like Natural Teeth
Are you losing your teeth? Or maybe they are also decaying? If so, it is time to consider dental implants. Decaying and loss of teeth might be a result of dental trauma or extraction.
Before discovering implants, the only way to replace a tooth was through fixed bridges and removable fixtures. Dental implants are as sturdy as natural teeth.
There are three main types of dental implants:
- Endosteal: Shaped like screws, they are the most common type of implants. The fitting of false teeth is on the jawbone.
- Subperiosteal: These rest on top of the bone but are placed below the gum.
- Zygomatic: They are the least common type. You can only install them when your jawbone or endosteal implant is not enough. Unlike in endosteal or subperiosteal procedures, placing the implant is on the cheekbone and not the jawbone.
In the event your jawbone cannot support dental implants, your doctor can suggest:
- Augmentation of the bone
- Sinus lift
- Ridge expansion
- 3D imaging
- All-on-4
- Mini dental implants
- Immediate load dental implants
How Do Dental Implants Work?
By design, dental implants contain a titanium screw and a post. The screw goes on your jawbone. The dental implants screws naturally fuse with your jawbone, resulting in a bond comparable to your tooth root in its natural state.
The connection formed after implantation is both secure and tight, with durability similar to your natural tooth. It also acts as a foundation for what comes on top, including dental dentures, crowns, and bridges.
Dental implants are very popular in this age because they:
- Look natural and are very comfortable
- They are very reliable and durable
- Their rate of success and survival is higher compared to natural teeth
- Since they reduce bone resorption, your ability to chew improves with dental implants
- They maintain and sometimes improve your bone and facial features
- They are stain-free, meaning your teeth remain brighter and whiter
- Since the material used to make them is highly durable, they do not decay, reducing cavities
Do They Feel Natural?
After an implant replaces a tooth, you do not feel the implant itself at all. Any sensation emanates from the gums surrounding the implant. Unlike natural teeth that contain nerves, dental implants do not. This means that with implants, sensations of heat, pressure, or cold are non-existent.
Are They Suitable For Me?
The only way to know for sure if you are a good candidate is by consulting your doctor. CITIDental Brookline offers dental services, including dental implants. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.
