A dental implant is a piece of metal that looks like a screw. It is put into the jaw where the missing tooth’s roots were. Over time, bone grows around the implant, which helps to hold it in place. An artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the metal to fill in the gap left by the missing tooth. The crown is specially made to look like your other teeth in size, shape and colour.
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
A dental implant is usually done in stages over a few months, with a series of minor operations and tests. You’ll need scans and x-rays to give the dentist a very clear picture of where to place the implant. You’ll have a minor operation to have the dental implant put in your jawbone. You will usually be given an anesthetic so that you don’t feel pain during the surgery. You wait for a few months while the bone grows around the dental implant. Once the implant is stable, your dentist will create a foundation for your new tooth. Sometime later, your dentist will take a mould of your mouth to make the artificial tooth or teeth. Finally, the artificial tooth or teeth are screwed or cemented into the foundation.
This procedure is a team effort between you & your dentist. Your dentist will consult with you to determine where and how your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your dentist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.
If you would like more information regarding dental implants please contact our friendly team at Coomera Dental Centre to make an appointment.