What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an option for replacing teeth. If you have a tooth that is missing, broken, or severely decayed and needs to be extracted, a dental implant can replace it. A dental implant is the highest quality tooth replacement option available. It has many benefits over a dental bridge. 

What are dental implants? Here’s an overview. 

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are many benefits of dental implants, including: 

  • Replace the tooth and root. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement option that also replaces the root. The implant is surgically placed in the jaw bone where the tooth root used to be. 
  • Preserve bone density. The implant prevents bone loss in the jaw by fusing with the bone and keeping it strong. 
  • Bite strength of a natural tooth. The strong bond that the implant creates with the jaw bone provides bite strength that rivals a natural tooth, perhaps even stronger. 
  • Natural appearance. A dental implant is the most natural looking tooth replacement option because it is anchored into the jaw the way a natural tooth would be. 

How a Dental Implant Works

A dental implant is a complete artificial tooth and root system. The root portion of the implant is made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that can fuse with the bone in the jaw through a process called osseointegration. Once this takes place, the bond is solid and can last a lifetime. 

Once the implant fuses with the bone, an abutment and then a crown can be attached to the top. The abutment is just the attaching post and the crown is the part that resembles a natural tooth. It is typically made of porcelain because it mimics the enamel of your teeth and because it is strong enough to withstand bite force. 

Dental Implant Supported Bridges and Dentures

Dental implants can be used to replace as many teeth as you need to have replaced. However, the cost of dental implants is significant. If you need to have multiple teeth replaced or an entire arch of teeth, implants can be used as anchors to hold a bridge or a set of dentures in place. 

Implant supported dentures are more secure and comfortable than traditional dentures that are prone to slipping and sliding out of place. They can be removable or permanent depending on your needs and preferences

Implant supported bridges allow you to replace a row of teeth without causing damage to the healthy teeth on either side of the bridge. It provides a secure prosthetic that is more likely to withstand the force of biting and chewing. 

Savannah Dental Solutions Provides Dental Implant Services 

Do dental implants sound like the best tooth replacement option for you? Savannah Dental Solutions can perform an evaluation to determine if you are an ideal candidate. Most patients are able to receive one or more dental implants without any complications. 

Call (912) 354-1366 or contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to offering you a range of tooth replacement options to determine the best fit for you.