dental implants

Dental Implant Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

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Dental Implants - Replacing a Single Tooth

If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.

When a single tooth is missing, the two most common treatment options are the traditional tooth-supported bridge and an implant-supported crown. When a traditional bridge is used to replace a missing tooth, the adjacent teeth are shaved down in order to fit the cemented bridge in place. See video to the right.

This method of tooth replacement can be very esthetic and functional for a period of time. However, a tooth-supported bridge does not replace the bone that previously surrounded the root. Since there is no longer a root to hold the bone in place, the bone deteriorates, or melts away.

Advantages to replacing a single missing tooth with an implant supported crown:

It looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth
It is much more esthetic long term
It does not decay
There is no need to grind down the adjacent natural teeth
The bone is preserved, preventing a visible bony defect
It is more hygienic (easier to clean) than a tooth-supported bridge

Procedure

The implant, which looks like a screw or cylinder, is placed into your jaw. Over the next two to six months, the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth. During this time, a temporary tooth replacement option can be worn over the implant site.

Finally, a replacement tooth called a crown will be created by your restorative dentist and attached to the implant. After a short time, you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak. For additional information, visit www.Nobelsmile.com.

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