What are dental implants?
Dental implants are replacement, or substitute tooth roots, used to replace natural tooth roots in areas of the mouth where teeth are missing. The reason it is so important to replace the tooth root as well as the visible part of the tooth is that natural tooth roots are embedded in the bone, stimulating bone growth and providing the stable foundation necessary to bite and chew. When teeth are missing, the bone that previously supported those teeth melts away, or deteriorates. This process is called bone resorption. However, the bone can be preserved by replacing missing tooth roots with dental implants. Since the bone actually forms a strong bond to the implants, they can serve the same functions as natural tooth roots.
Dental implants are metal screws or cylinders that are inserted in the jawbone and used to support artificial teeth. The majority of modern implants are made of commercially pure titanium. Titanium implants are able to bond with bone. Some implants are coated with materials that enhance the attachment of the implant to the jawbone.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life. If you are missing any natural teeth, Dr. Clifton may recommend you consider dental implants to replace the roots of a missing tooth or teeth so these teeth can be restored in a beautiful and natural manner. Implants can also be used to secure an unstable denture. Ask Dr. Clifton how you can benefit from a dental implant or implant-retained teeth.
Dental implants are precisely manufactured substitute tooth roots usually made from titanium or its alloy resembling screws, which actually bond with the living bone structure of the jaw. Dental Implants have been around for many years. Developed in the 60’s they have evolved into the present day implant.
Dental implants are small diameter “screw-like” devices which are placed into the bone. After the bone integrates (grows into) the implant, teeth or other fixtures may be attached to the implant body. Dental implants are the most successful method of replacing a missing tooth available today. Another important advantage with the dental implant is that no other teeth are touched in the procedure.
