Dental implants are one of the most conservative treatment options for replacing one or more missing teeth. These artificial tooth replacements were first developed half a century ago by a Swedish scientist named Per-Ingvar Branemark.
Implants arose from the patient’s need to secure loose-fitting dentures. Since the advent of the implant, engineering and enhancements to it have enabled dentists to expand its usefulness, including the replacement of missing or lost teeth.
Implants are biocompatible posts that are attached to the jawbone and in turn become the foundation for a restoration that will look and feel like your natural tooth. Once it is in place, Dr. Saghatchi will permanently cement a crown or bridge to the implant.
Today, implant techniques provide a wide range of tooth replacement solutions including:
- Single Tooth Replacement
- Anterior Replacement
- Posterior Replacement
- Full Upper Replacement
Types of Implants
There are three main types of implants:
- The root implant
- The plate form implant
- The subperiosteal implant
Patients are advised to visit their dentists at least twice a year to ensure the health of their teeth and implants. Dental implants can last for decades when given proper care.