Implants

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root composed of a titanium screw mounted in the jawbone. Implants are used to support a number of dental prostheses, including crowns, implant-supported bridges or dentures. They are very realistic restorations, looking and feeling like natural teeth.

Dental implants resemble a tooth or group of teeth, replacing missing teeth to remedy partial or complete edentulism (toothlessness). They are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due – for example – to periodontal disease or an injury.

The top of the implanted screw is uncovered for a fabricated tooth to be attached by using either a cementing agent or a tiny screw. Implant bridges can be either removable or fixed depending upon the number of implants.

A dental implant may be needed in the following situations:

• To replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth.
• To support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
• To provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
• To form the 'root' for a dental crown.
• As anchorage for orthodontic tooth movement.