Implants are artificial titanium roots placed in the jawbone to receive ceramic crown on top. Implants are indicated to replace missing teeth or damaged teeth.
To be a good candidate for a dental implant you need to have enough bone to support the implant. The dentist will check your bone level with the help of Xray to determine the right size of implant for your case.
The surgery is usually done under local freezing to place the implant in the jawbone. The implant is left in the bone for three months to integrate with the bone. After three months, the next step should ensue, when a crown replacement is constructed to fit on the dental implant.
Implants are very durable and can withstand the heavy biting forces with an average lifespan of 10-20 years, which is longer than the lifespan of any other restorative dental treatment.
Are dental implants suitable for everyone?
Implants success depends on the bone health and maintaining a good oral hygiene. If you're diabetic or a heavy smoker you might not be a good candidate for dental implants.
How to maintain dental implants?
Brushing around dental implants just like you brush around natural teeth. It's true that dental implants don't get cavities as they are made of titanium but the gum around dental implants get inflamed just like gum around natural teeth. Gum inflammation around dental implants can compromise the bone integration leading to bone loss around implants which is the most common cause of dental implants failure.