Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. Compared to dentures, bridges and crowns, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth or chronic dental problems. Because they fit, feel and function like natural teeth, dental implants are quickly becoming the new standard in tooth replacement.
Dental implants typically have three parts:
- The implant: A screw that serves as a root for your new teeth. This is what permanently attaches to your jaw.
- The abutment: A permanent, but removable by your doctor, connector that supports and holds a tooth or set of teeth.
- The crown (or prosthetic tooth): This is the part of the tooth that you can see. It’s usually made of zirconium or porcelain for durability and good looks.
Single Tooth Implants
If you have lost a single tooth due to an accident or from periodontal disease, that one tooth can be easily replaced using a dental implant. Your new tooth will look and function just like your other natural teeth.
Multiple Implants
Occasionally a patient is missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth, and a multiple implant is the best solution. Two fixtures are implanted and the crown is attached, leaving other natural teeth intact. The multiple implant is not for everyone, and even if a patient is only missing a few teeth, it may still be preferable to perform an all-on-four procedure.
All-On-Four Implants
Patients who need to replace a full upper and/or lower set of teeth can now receive all-on-four implants. An oral surgeon will place 4 implants and then attach a full arch of teeth, giving the procedure its name.