Dental Implant

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are state-of-the-art dental prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth in a way that closely mimics natural teeth. They consist of three main components:

1. Implant Post: This is a small, titanium or ceramic screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant post serves as an artificial tooth root and provides a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
2. Abutment: The abutment is a connector piece that attaches to the implant post. It protrudes above the gumline and provides a secure attachment point for the replacement tooth.
3. Crown: The crown is the visible part of the dental implant, which is custom-designed to match the shape, colour, and size of your natural teeth. It is attached to the abutment and serves as the functional replacement tooth.

Why Dental Implants Are the Ultimate Solution

1. Natural Appearance: Dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. With a custom-made crown that matches your existing teeth, no one will be able to tell the difference.
2. Durability: Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, which may need frequent replacement, dental implants offer a long-term solution.
3. Functionality: Dental implants function just like natural teeth. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about slippage or discomfort commonly associated with removable dentures.
4. Preservation of Bone Health: When a tooth is lost, the jawbone beneath it can start to deteriorate. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving your facial structure.
5. Improved Oral Health: Unlike dental bridges, which require the adjacent teeth to be modified to support the bridge, dental implants don’t affect adjacent teeth. This helps maintain the integrity of your natural teeth.

The Dental Implant Process

The journey to a transformed smile with dental implants typically involves several steps:

1. Consultation: The process begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Vesna. She will assess together with dental surgeon your dental health, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan.
2. Implant Placement: In the next phase, the implant post is surgically placed in the jawbone by Dental surgeon. The jawbone gradually fuses with the implant, a process called osseointegration, which provides a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
3. Abutment Attachment: Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant post, providing a connection point for the crown.
4. Custom Crown: A custom crown is fabricated to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Dr Vesna then attached the crown to the abutment, completing your dental implant.
5. Follow-up Care: After the implant is placed, routine check-ups and proper oral hygiene are crucial to ensure the implant’s long-term success. Dr Vesna will provide guidance on how to care for your dental implant.

Candidates for Dental Implants

1. Good Oral Health: Candidates should have healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implant.
2. Non-Smokers: Smoking can impair the healing process and reduce the success rate of dental implants.
3. Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental implants.
4. Overall Health: Candidates should be in good general health, as certain medical conditions may affect the healing process.
5. Realistic Expectations: Understanding the procedure and having realistic expectations about the results are important for a successful dental implant experience.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

1. Improved Quality of Life: Dental implants not only restore your smile but also enhance your overall quality of life. You can enjoy your favourite foods, speak confidently, and smile without reservation.
2. Long-Term Solution: Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, offering a stable and reliable solution for missing teeth.
3. Enhanced Aesthetics: Dental implants provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, boosting your self-esteem and confidence.
4. Preservation of Facial Structure: By stimulating the jawbone, dental implants help maintain your facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance often associated with missing teeth.
5. Comfort and Convenience: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are permanently fixed in your mouth, eliminating the discomfort and inconvenience of removable prosthetics.