If
a tooth has been lost, or extracted, the gap can be replaced with
a bridge, denture, or implant.
Dental implants are metal, or carbon posts that are surgically placed
into the bone.
Once the implant has been anchored by the bone, the implant is prepared
to accept the prosthetic.
Crowns, a bridge, or stabilized denture may be attached to the implant.
Since these must be carefully constructed to match the opposing
tooth and ensure a correct bite, several impressions of the teeth
are taken and sent to a lab which will construct the prosthetics.
The dentist will fit the crown over the implant; and if the fit
is good, then the dentist will cement the crown into place.
Two implants are used to anchor a bridge. If the bridge fits well,
then the dentist will cement it into place.
Implants used for an overdenture are fitted with a ball screw. This
allows the denture to easily and firmly be snapped into place.
Considerations
Implants are usually a very comfortable and effective replacements
for teeth. They look and feel quite natural, and can be expected
to last for 20 years to life. Importantly, implants will stop resorbtion
of the underlying bone thus solving a significant problem with dentures.
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