When one or more teeth are lost, replacement is usually necessary to avoid more serious problems. Traditionally treatment includes removable dentures and fixed bridges, which may not provide long term solutions.
Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.
What are dental implants?
The implants themselves are titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Abutments that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These abutments provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth (crowns).