Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. The implants are made of biocompatible titanium, which is fused with the bone over time. Replacement teeth can then be attached once the implants have been fused to the bone. These replacement teeth can be crowns or other prostheses.
At Columbus Family Dental, dental implants can replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or even an entire arch of missing teeth. They are often considered the best treatment option for replacing missing teeth because they look and function like natural teeth.
The Different Types of Dental Implants
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common dental implant in Columbus, NC. These implants consist of a metal post surgically placed into the jawbone. The post is fused with the bone over time, providing a stable foundation for the crown that is attached to the post. Once the post has been fused to the bone, a crown is attached to complete the restoration.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are similar to endosteal implants, consisting of a metal post surgically placed onto the jawbone. However, subperiosteal implants are not implanted directly into the bone. Instead, they are placed on the bone above the gum line. This type of implant is typically used when there is not enough healthy bone to support an endosteal implant.
The Procedure for Dental Implants
The first step in the dental implant process is a consultation with our dentist in Columbus, NC. We will review your medical history during this consultation and discuss your oral health goals. The next step is to place the implant posts into your jaw. To do this, we will numb the area and use local anesthesia to make you feel comfortable. We then make a small incision in your gum to expose the bone underneath. Next, we will make a small hole in the bone and place the post inside. The post is then secured in place with a screw or abutment. Once the post is in place, we will suture your gums closed around the post.
After placing the implant, you must wait a few months for the post to be fused to your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration. During this time, the bone will grow around the post, creating a stable foundation for your artificial tooth. Once this process is complete, we can move on to the next step.
The final step in the dental implant process is to attach the artificial tooth to the post. This can be done in various ways, but the most common method is to use an abutment. An abutment is a small metal piece that connects the post and the artificial tooth. We will attach the abutment to the post and place the artificial tooth on top.
Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. Get in touch with Columbus Family Dental at 43 E Mills St, Columbus, NC 28722, or call (828) 894-8291 to determine if dental implants are right for you.