A dental implant is made of titanium and shaped like a screw. The implant is placed into the jawbone and serves as a secure root for the new tooth. Once in place, the implant can be used to attach different types of dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges or dentures.
How long has dental implant treatment been practised?
- Fixture
- Abutment
- Crown/Fixture
Patients have been successfully treated with dental implants since the mid-sixties. Today there are people who have had their dental implants for more than forty years.
One tooth missing - when is a dental implant an alternative?
Before/After
Whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth or have lost all your teeth, dental implants are a permanent way to get new ones.
When you have lost one tooth
If you have one single tooth missing, a single crown on an implant is generally the best way to restore your chewing function and natural appearance.
When is a dental implant an alternative?
Before/After
When you have lost several teeth.
Before/After
If you have several teeth missing, a bridge or crowns supported by several implants will restore your function and looks.
If all your teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw, you can choose either a full bridge supported by implants or a denture retained by implants.
Before/After
A full bridge is fixed to five or more implants and can only be removed by the dentist.
The implant supported denture is connected via attachments to two or more implants, allowing easy removal. When in place, the denture is firmly attached to the implants and there is no risk of it coming loose.
Your exact treatment depends on your individual situation and personal preference. The type and amount of bone, as well as, functional conditions will all play a role in identifying the best treatment option for you.
Talk with your dentist and find out more. Whether you have a “fixed” bridge or an implant supported denture, you will be able to speak, chew and smile with confidence.
from www.astratech.com