The Basics of Dental Implants

Until recently, crowns and bridges were the only two options available to replace a broken or damaged tooth. These days, dental implants have emerged as a popular alternative when the tooth root doesn’t allow for the building of a replacement. What is a dental implant all about? Let’s take a look.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots surgically drilled into your jaw to provide a solid basis for permanent teeth. Dentists use what is known as Endosteal implants for treatment purposes instead of Subperiosteal implants as the former offer several advantages. Endosteal implants are in the bone, i.e., the implants are drilled into the jawbone and allowed to merge with the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants rest on the jawbone under the gum tissue. These implants are no longer in use today because they offer poor long-term results.

Dental Implant Procedure: How Does It Work?

Let’s take a step-by-step look at how a dental implant procedure works:

• After cleaning out the pulpy regions of your natural tooth root, the dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone, and your jaw is allowed to heal.
• A process called osseointegration occurs over the next few months wherein the jawbone grows and encapsulates the implant to hold it in place. You may have to wait till the integration is complete to receive replacement teeth.
• In the third step, the dentist will place a new temporary tooth on your implant. Called the crown, the replacement will match the color, size, and appearance of your natural teeth.
• The final step usually happens after successful osseointegration. Here, the dentist will remove your temporary crown to replace it with permanent teeth.

Are Dental Implants The Right Option For You?

Dental implants are a boon for millions of people as they improve appearance, give you confidence, and allow you to maintain your oral health better. 

If you need a dental implant procedure, get in touch with Sheffield Square Dental by calling (773) 880-2310 or setting up an appointment online to get a complete assessment. You can also visit us at 2835 N Sheffield Ave #305, Chicago 60657.