A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of metal (titanium) which is inserted into the jaw to replace a natural tooth root. An artificial tooth replacement is then secured to the implant, which an abutment serves to maintain the tooth in place. Dental Implants in Willmar, MN are used often now that patients are becoming more aware of its advantages. This article will clue you in on some of those and other useful information.
Procedural information
1. Your dentist must perform a rigorous examination of your mouth and take x-rays of your head, jaw and teeth to determine if a dental implant is indicated in your case.
2. During the first stage of surgery, your dentist inserts a dental implant in your jaw under the gum tissue, then sutures the gum tissue. During tissue healing, the implant will integrate with the bone and fix the gum. The healing process can take several months.
3. During the second stage of the surgery, after tissue healing, your dentist sets a pillar to the implant. The abutment is a pin which connects the tooth to the replacement implant. In some cases, the first two stages of implant surgery can be combined in a single visit.
4. A replacement tooth is made, then it is attached to the pillar by your dentist. The perfect fit of the tooth on the pillar may require several visits.
5. Whether to replace several teeth or all of your teeth is a decision made by your dentist using a fixed bridge. The bridge is a dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by covering the entire edentulous area. The bridge is held firmly in place by healthy natural teeth, which are situated on either side of the missing tooth or, or by one or more dental implants.
Other useful information
The whole process may take several visits to your dentist. Follow-up visits will be scheduled during the year following implant placement so that your dentist will ensure the proper functioning of implants. You should take good care of your Dental Implants in Willmar, MN as well. This is because implants can cost more than other types of replacement teeth and they may not be covered by your dental plan. However, unlike other alternative technologies, it is usually a one-time cost. Visit Glacial Lakes Dental for more information.
