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by Dr. Joseph P. Graskemper
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Whether you have full or partial dentures, or recently lost a tooth, dental implants may be an option for you.
Most implants are endosteal root form. It is placed in the jaw bone and acts as an artificial root that can be used to attach a tooth or help hold a denture in place.
Implants are not an option for everyone.
Your health and the adequate amount of bone available to support the implant are major factors that determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.
First, the dental implant is placed and allowed to heal for 4-6 months. During this time, the bone actually grows and attaches to the implant. This process is called osseointegration.
While osseointegration is occurring during those 4-6 months, temporary replacement teeth can be made so you won’t have to go without teeth. In select cases you can have a tooth on the implant at the time it is placed. It is referred to immediate loading the implant.
After 4-6 months and healing has taken place, the top of the implant is uncovered and a post is placed into the implant.
The artificial tooth is then attached to the post. It is also possible to have the post and the crown (artificial tooth) as one piece that is screwed into the implant.
Of course, if one tooth is being replaced, then one implant is needed. If multiple teeth are being replaced, you not need an implant for each tooth. Rather, 3 – 4 teeth may only need 2 implants.
For dentures, a minimum of 2 implants are required to hold the denture in place. More implants may be placed for added security of the denture, if adequate bone is available.
Most implants, when properly placed, enjoy a success rate of better than 90 percent. With proper oral hygiene at home and proper professional maintenance visits, dental implants have last over 20 years.
If you wish for more information or need to make an appointment, please call (631) 286–4243 or see our website at bellportvillagedentist.com.
