Dental implants are treatment options designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth (Figure 1,2,3,4,5,6). The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything. They are increasingly used to attach crowns, bridges ore dentures by anchorage the bone.

   
Figure 1 (Source: Anonym)

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone . The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implants which protrude through the gums (Figure 7). These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Implants can be used in this manner to replace single missing teeth, multiple missing teeth, or all of person’s teeth (Figure 8).

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing. They also carry significant advantages over conventional techniques such as bridges, since adjacent teeth are not involved.
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The Surgical Procedure:

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within jawbone. For the first two to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. Temporary dentures are warn and eaten a soft diet during this time. At the same time, dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone (Figure 9), the second phase begins. Implants will be uncovered and small posts attached, which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. The entire procedure usually takes three to twelve months. The longer time period may be necessary for those patients requiring bone grafting procedures. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

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