What are Dental Implants?
Before development of dental implants, dentures were
the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.
Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the
tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored
to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a
foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some
cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.
Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For
a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone
density and have a strong immune system. In all cases, dental
implants require strict oral hygiene.
Implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of
natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet
biocompatible material like metal or ceramic.
Surgery is necessary to prepare the area
for an dental implant and place the implant in
the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for
the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor
the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant
during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.
Because implants require surgery, patients are administered
anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection
following the procedure.
Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and
proper care to ensure they last a long time.
Today's Dentistry serves the Andersonville, Edgewater, and
Chicago, IL area.
For more information on dental implants, call our dental
office at (773) 334-1801!