When someone looses a permanent tooth their chewing function is affected, which in turn can compromise jawbone strength and alignment of the other teeth. Tooth alignment determines how well we chew and this in turn impacts the muscles and bones of our jaw, neck and head.
For these reasons, Kettering and Miamisburgh dentists always advise patients to have the tooth replaced. Bridges, full and partial dentures and dental implants are techniques and materials that can be used to restore a patient’s bite.
Teeth have three layers - the outermost layer is the enamel, the softer tissues in the middle are called the dentin and the core of the tooth contains the softest layer called the pulp which consists of bone marrow and blood vessels and nerves. The roots of the teeth are embedded in the jaw bone, and as long as the tooth is healthy, it supports and strengthens the surrounding bone.
Dental implants resemble natural teeth to the extent that they have a root portion and an upper part that performs the same function as the dentin and enamel of natural teeth. The size of implant fixture used depends on the size of the tooth being restored and is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Following surgical placement, a period of osseointegration or assimilation of the anchor into the tissues of the area is allowed, which could take up to six months. If osseointegration fails, the process can be tried again, but after a period in which the bone is allowed to heal.
When the anchor is firmly integrated into the jawbone, a crown is put onto it.
Dental statistics for the Kettering and Miamisburg area give a ninety-five percent success rate for implants in the lower jaw and a ninety percent success rate in the upper jaw. This variation, dental experts speculate, is likely caused by the difference in bone density between the upper and lower jaw bones which results in different rates of osseointegration.
Implants are not recommended in all circumstances to all patients; the final determination being made by an appropriately trained dentist or oral surgeon. Issues such as space and bone condition will affect the decision. Sometimes dental surgeons will suggest a “mini-implant” instead, which has a much smaller anchor and is just partially inserted into the jawbone. Mini-implants are better suited to replacing smaller teeth or acting as anchors for dentures and overdentures.
The patients who undergo implant placement should maintain a regular dental hygiene routine, because the soft tissues (gums) around the implants are as vulnerable to bacterial infection as those surrounding natural teeth.