Dental implants are artificial replacement teeth that are surgically implanted so they are attached under the gums to hold them in place. Dental implants give a more natural look and feel than dentures because they are not removable. These are the two types of dental implants that are commonly installed by dental professionals today.
Endosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal dental implants are installed deep enough under the gums to be attached directly to the jawbone. First, the cylinder shaped metal implant is inserted into the gums and screwed into the jawbone. The gums are sutured back up to allow time for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. The patient may need to wait several months before the next step begins.
Then, an abutment is attached to the implant that the artificial tooth can be fitted on to. The artificial tooth is attached securely to the abutment and once the gums heal around the abutment and tooth, the patient can eat and chew easily just like they would with their natural teeth.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Subperiosteal dental implants are installed under the gums but on top of the jawbone instead. A metal framework is placed on top of the jawbone and metal posts stick up through the gums for the artificial teeth to be attached to. Once the implants are surgically installed, the gums are sewn back up and must heal before the teeth are attached to the posts.
Just like with endosteal dental implants, the gums will heal around the artificial teeth after the teeth have been attached to the posts. This makes the teeth stronger and more natural looking as well. Eating and chewing with subperiosteal dental implants is also similar to that of natural teeth because the implants hold the artificial teeth in place tightly.
Those who have endosteal dental implants installed must have enough jawbone height for the metal implant to be screwed down into the jawbone. However, for those who do not have sufficient jawbone height, subperiosteal dental implants can work just as well. Since these implants have a framework that sits on top of the jawbone, the height of the jawbone does not affect installation.
Dental implants are an ideal tooth replacement option for those who want their teeth to look and feel more like natural teeth. With proper dental care, implants can last for many years and possibly even for the lifetime of the patient. Implants can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth and the patient should also have regular dental checkups as well. Click for more info.
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