Tooth loss due to injury, cracks, or other dental issues can significantly impact a person’s confidence. Those who lose their teeth often feel self-conscious and may avoid smiling or showing their teeth in public. Fortunately, dental implants offer an excellent solution for restoring confidence.
Whether tooth loss is a result of an accident or a dental condition, dental implants can help individuals reclaim their confidence and smile freely again. In this article, we’ll explore how dental implants can transform lives and restore smiles. Let’s dive in.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants arelasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They consist of small titanium or ceramic posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone, acting like the roots of natural teeth.
The implant process involves three main parts: the implant screw, which securely fuses with the jawbone; the abutment, which connects the implant to the new tooth; and the crown. The crown is a custom-made artificial tooth. It is made in such a way that it looks and functions like a natural one.
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal implants, which go directly into the jawbone, and subperiosteal implants, which rest on top of the jawbone, ideal for those with less bone density.
Dental implants provide excellent stability, function, and a natural appearance, making them a great alternative to traditional dentures.
Dental Implants Have Three Main Parts
Screw:
The screw, also known as the implant post or fixture, is the foundation of the dental implant. Made from biocompatible materials like titanium, this screw is surgically inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This fusion provides a stable and strong base that mimics the root of a natural tooth, ensuring the implant stays securely in place.
The Abutment:
The abutment is a small connector piece that attaches to the implant screw. It serves as the intermediary between the screw and the crown. Once the implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone, the abutment is placed on top of the screw. This component is crucial for securing the crown and ensuring a snug fit. It is typically made from materials such as titanium or zirconia, chosen for their strength and compatibility with the body.
The Crown:
The crown is the visible part of the dental implant. This part is made in such a way that it looks and functions like a natural tooth. Custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, the crown is attached to the abutment.
It can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or resin, designed to blend seamlessly with your smile.
The crown not only restores the appearance of your missing tooth but also provides the necessary function for chewing and speaking, ensuring you regain full dental functionality.
Two Types of Dental Implants
Endosteal Implants:
The most commonly used implant is the Endosteal implants. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and provide a strong and stable foundation for the replacement teeth.
Shaped like small screws, cylinders, or blades, endosteal implants are made from biocompatible materials such as titanium. They fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which ensures a secure and durable anchor for the abutment and crown.
Endosteal implants are ideal for patients with sufficient healthy jawbone to support the implant.
Subperiosteal Implants:
Subperiosteal implants are an alternative to endosteal dental restoration, designed for patients who have insufficient jawbone density and cannot undergo bone grafting procedures.
Instead of being inserted into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants rest on top of the bone but under the gum tissue. A metal framework is placed under the gum with posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthetic teeth.
These implants are a suitable option for those who do not have enough healthy bone or prefer a less invasive procedure. Although less common, subperiosteal implants still provide a stable and effective solution for tooth replacement.
Why Choose Era Health?
Expertise:
At Era Health, our team of highly skilled and experienced dentists has been serving the Melbourne CBD community for over 11 years. Our team is full with expert dentists like Dr. Florence Ting, Dr. Fiona Kelly and Dr. Daren Loo.
Our dental professionals are accredited members of the Australian Dental Association and stay updated of the latest advancements in dental technology and dental surgery. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that our patients receive the best care possible, tailored to their individual needs.
Our team specializes in a wide range of dental services, from routine check-ups to complex oral implant procedures, guaranteeing top-notch care for all our patients.
Approach:
Our patient-centric approach sets Era Health apart. We believe in providing comprehensive support throughout every stage of dental care, from the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up.
Our practice emphasizes patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. During Covid 19, We were very strict about our safety protocols, including regular sanitization, the use of PPE, and patient symptom monitoring, ensuring a safe environment for all.
We take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and develop personalized treatment plans that ensure optimal outcomes.
Advanced Technology:
Era Health is equipped with state-of-the-art dental technology, allowing us to offer precise and efficient treatments. Our investment in advanced diagnostic tools and modern dental equipment ensures that we can provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments with minimal discomfort.
Whether it’s digital imaging, laser dentistry, or cutting-edge implant technology, our focus on utilizing the latest innovations in dental care means that our patients benefit from the highest standards of treatment.
Cosmetic Excellence:
Combining advanced technology with artistic vision, Era Health excels in cosmetic dentistry. Our goal is to enhance the natural beauty of your smile while ensuring optimal dental health.
We offer a variety of cosmetic services, including teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental crowns, all designed to improve the appearance of your teeth. Our dentists take a meticulous approach to cosmetic procedures, ensuring that every treatment is customized to meet your aesthetic goals and achieve a natural, radiant smile.
With a dedication to excellence and a compassionate approach to care, Era Health is your trusted partner in achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
Procedure for Dental Implants
Initial Consultation:
The journey to a new smile with dental implants begins with an initial consultation. During this visit, our dental professionals will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, to assess the condition of your jawbone and surrounding teeth.
This thorough evaluation helps us determine your suitability for dental implants and allows us to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Preparation Phase:
Once your treatment plan is established, the preparation phase begins. This phase may include necessary preoperative procedures such as tooth extractions or bone grafting if there is insufficient bone density to support the implant.
Bone grafting involves adding bone material to your jaw to create a solid foundation for the implants. This step is crucial for stability and long-term success.
Implant Positioning:
The next step of dental implant is positioning (surgical placement). Under local anesthesia, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone, where the implant screw is then carefully positioned.
The screw acts as the artificial root of the new tooth, providing a stable anchor for the entire implant structure. This procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive, and our advanced technology ensures precise and comfortable placement.
Osseointegration and Healing:
After the implant screw is positioned, the process of osseointegration begins. This crucial phase involves the implant fusing with the jawbone, which can take several weeks to a few months.
During this time, the bone grows around the implant, integrating it firmly into place. This period is essential for ensuring the stability and durability of the implant.
Temporary restorations may be placed to maintain aesthetics and function during the healing process.
Abutment Placement:
Once osseointegration is complete and the implant is securely integrated with the jawbone, the abutment is placed. This small connector piece attaches to the implant screw and protrudes above the gum line, providing a stable base for the crown.
The gum tissue around the abutment is then allowed to heal, typically taking a few weeks, ensuring a snug fit and proper alignment.
Final Restoration:
The final step in the dental implant procedure is the placement of the custom-made crown. This prosthetic tooth is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.
The crown is strongly attached to the abutment. With your new implant, you will enjoy restored function and aesthetics, allowing you to smile, speak, and eat with confidence. Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor the implant and ensure its long-term success.
Wrapping Up
At Era Health, our meticulous approach to each phase of the Missing teeth solutions procedure ensures that you receive the highest quality care and achieve the best possible outcomes for your new smile. Contact Us now to get the best dental implant service.
