A dental implant is a replacement for the root or roots of a tooth. Like natural tooth roots, implants are secured into the jawbone and are not visible once placed. They are used to secure crowns (part of the tooth that is seen in the mouth), bridges or dentures. They are made of titanium, which is lightweight, strong and biocompatible (meaning it is not rejected by the body). Titanium is the most widely used metal in both dental and other bone implants, such as hip replacements.
What are dental implants used for?
There are many reasons why a person may lose one or more teeth. There are generally three options to replace a missing tooth or teeth: a removable denture plate, a fixed bridge, and dental implants. There are advantages and disadvantages to each option, and your dentist will help you find the most suitable solution for you, both functionally, aesthetically and financially.
It is without doubt though that dental implants have risen to become the gold standard in modern dentistry for tooth replacement. It is seen by many patients and dentists as the closest replacement option to the real thing!
Dental implants can be used when a single tooth or multiple teeth are missing. And although an implant may cost more initially than other choices for tooth replacement, such as bridges or dentures, they are significantly more stable and durable than the alternatives.
It is also important to understand that when a missing tooth is not replaced in a timely fashion, the surrounding teeth may shift to fill the gap, creating problems than can only be addressed by more extensive and costly interventions.
Patients who invest in dental implants can reap the benefits for decades, provided they take good care of their implants.
To find out more about dental implants please contact Dr Bojana Aboud or Dr Julie Ghaly on (03) 9888 5555