Dental Implants in Lexington, KY
Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Now, dental implants are a permanent tooth-replacement option that looks and feels like natural teeth. Learn more about dental implants offered here in Lexington, KY by Central Kentucky Dental Implant and Sleep Apnea Center.
What Are Dental Implants?
Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.
Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.
Implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic.
What to Expect During Dental Implant Surgery?
Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. After determining a patient has good oral health and also sufficient bone to accept an implant, a simple in-office surgery is performed to secure the device. Patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.
Usually using just local anesthesia to numb the area, your Lexington dentist incises the gums and drills a small hole into the jaw bone at the implant site. The device is screwed into place flush with the bone. The area is then sutured closed. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.
Typically, dental implant surgery has a second stage--placement of the abutment and crown onto the embedded implant. However, sometimes the dentist places the abutment right along with the implant device. Your dentist determines the kind of surgery necessary based on patient need.
How Successful Are Implants?
The Academy of Osseointegration, made up of experts on how human bone melds with titanium implants, says that more than 90 percent of dental implant surgeries are successful. Furthermore, more than 90 percent of dental implants stay in place for decades. Contrast this with traditional dentures or bridgework which have typical lifespans of about 10 years. Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time.