How Do Dental Implants Work?
Made from the strongest titanium, dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing or following the loss of a tooth/teeth. Following dental implant placement, the implants will gradually bond with the jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new teeth. Dental implants work by artificially simulating the structure of a real, natural tooth. By doing so, dental implants allow for increased longevity, natural-looking results, and decreased jawbone loss. Dental implants utilize durable materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that are well tolerated by the body ensuring long-term strength and stability.
Dental implants are made of 3 parts – the post, abutment, and crown. The post acts as the root of the tooth and is available in different sizes depending on the tooth being replaced and the amount of jawbone density the patient has. In some cases, dental bone grafting may be required to create a solid foundation to support the dental implants. During bone grafting, we will often utilize PRP to help in healing and regeneration. In some cases, patients with low jawbone density may be better candidates for mini dental implants (short implants) or zygomatic implants (longer implants that bond to the cheekbone).
Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone and the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a dental abutment is placed onto the implant. The process of a dental implant joining with bone is referred to as osseointegration. Osseointegration is the key for dental implant success, ensuring the jawbone is stabilized to prevent any further loss and restore functionality. The abutment acts as a connector between the implant and your dental crown. The dental crown is cemented or screwed into the abutment, completing your smile restoration.