A dental implant is a non-natural tooth root that is positioned on a patient’s jaw so as to be able to hold a replacement tooth. These implants are an important consideration for those people who may have lost their teeth as a result of a disease, injury, or another reasons.

Types of implants
Different types of implants can be done to a patient. Endosteal implants are the most common type of implants. They include screws, blades, and cylinders that are surgically placed into the jawbone of a patient. This kind of an implant is used by those people who have bridges and removable dentures. A subperiosteal implant is positioned on top of the jaw. The metal structure posts protrude all the way through the gum to cling to the prosthesis. These types of prosthesis are helpful to the patients who are not capable of wearing the usual dentures and have small bone height.

Requirements of a dental implant
To be an excellent candidate for a dental implant, a good general and oral health is mandatory. Adequate bone in the jaw is necessary to support the implant. The most outstanding candidates have a healthy gum that is not infected with periodontal diseases. Dental implants are attached to the gum and the primary bone in the mouth. Since periodontists are specialists in this area, you should make them part of your dental implant team. Most periodontist have acquired a lot of practical skills while working with other professionals, and they possess specialized knowledge, training, and facilities that a patient will require to have an implant that looks and feels like the original teeth. Your dentist and the periodontist will labor jointly in making your dream come true.

Caring for an implant
A treatment plan may consist of replacing a single tooth, replacing several teeth, replacing all your teeth, sinus augmentation, and ridge modification. After the implantation, you will be required to perform oral care at home, which will be coupled with regular dental visits. Regular brushing and flossing will maintain your implants free of plaques. Dental implants that are well taken care of are capable of lasting a patient’s lifetime. It has been established that 95 percent of all dental implants are successful, although some factors such as age, medical condition, and dental hygiene may affect how long an implant may last.

Implants, when compared to missing teeth, contribute in an immense way to good health through promoting a good physical appearance and in making eating easier and enjoyable. It is also helpful in preserving the tissues and the structures of the mouth in good shape. In case of questions that are related to implants, or if you are considering getting the treatment, you can talk to your dental care professional.