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How Do Dental Implants Work?

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September 6, 2018
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How Do Dental Implants Work?


One of the biggest advancements in dental science since their inception in the 1970’s has been the evolution and use of dental implants. Today’s dental implants have gone through many changes and improvements over the years and have entered into an era of extreme popularity and success. Those suffering from tooth loss from disease or injury now have an option that can function much like their former tooth/teeth.

The Buzz About Dental Implants

A common buzzword in the dental industry right now is “implants.”  Chances are, you have heard this term floating around in conversations in the dental office, on the news, or with your peers. The reason for all the buzz is because dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or fill a gap where you might be missing multiple teeth. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 30 million Americans are living without their teeth in one or both jaws.  The opportunities dental implants offer for restoring smiles affected by disease or injury to their former functionality and beauty is an amazing thing.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants have become the first choice and standard of care in the dental industry compared to former options for restoring missing or damaged teeth.  The success of dental implants is related, partially, to their simple design.  The process is done in two phases:

First Phase:

Dr. Bockrath places a titanium screw in the bone of your jaw where it becomes an anchoring base for your replacement tooth or teeth. This piece of metal replaces the natural tooth’s root and functions much the same–it provides a fixed attachment for the tooth into the jaw. When dental implants are installed properly, the metal is capable of fusing completely with the bone of your jaw. During the healing process your implant will osseointegrate (fuse with) your natural jawbone.  The implant and the jawbone will grow together forming a strong and long-lasting foundation for your replacement teeth.

Second Phase:

This healing process for the first phase, where Dr. Bockrath places the titanium screw, usually takes a period of weeks or months–depending on your rate of healing.  During this time, you proceed with life as you did before with short, check-up appointments along the way to monitor your progress. Once Dr. Bockrath is satisfied that your implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector, or abutment, is then placed on top of the dental implant offering a place the replacement tooth/teeth can attach to.  An individual tooth, an implant-supported bridge, or dentures containing multiple teeth that want a more fixed foundation, are then attached to the abutment.

The Advantages of Dental Implants 

Dental implants look, feel and function like your real teeth. They offer you a long-term solution and are built to last. While dental implants may need to be adjusted periodically, they can last a lifetime when properly placed and cared for over time. Dental implants must be cared for with the same great oral hygiene standards and preventative care that you practice for your natural teeth. Brushing, flossing, and regular examinations and cleanings are important for the health of tissues and gums that support your dental implants.  Dental implants are firmly rooted and will not wiggle loose like dental bridges can.  They offer a fixed solution to missing teeth without the downsides dentures (that aren’t fixed to an implant) bring.  Dentures can affect your speech, can be uncomfortable, can be misplaced, can affect your facial structure, your smile, and limit what you are able to eat.  Dental implants help you avoid all that.

Dental Implants Statistics and Facts

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry provides us with some fascinating facts about dental implants and their growing popularity and success. Check out the following data they provide on their website:

  • More than 30 million Americans are missing all their teeth in one or both jaws
  • 15 million people in the U.S. have crown and bridge replacements for missing teeth
  • 3 million have implants and that number is growing by 500,000 a year
  • 10 percent of all US dentists place implants but that is increasing
  • The success rate of dental implants has been reported in scientific literature as 98 percent
  • Implants performed by US dentists………………………..5,505,720 (2006)

Schedule a Free Dental Implants Consultation

If you would like to know more about how dental implants work, and if they could help you reach your smile goals, call (303) 731-7755. We are committed to helping you find a solution that will work best with your particular needs and wants.  A healthy smile is a happy smile!


291 E Flatiron Crossing Dr,
Broomfield, CO 80021

(303) 731-7755

 

When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.