Cosmetic Dentisty And The Dental Implant Process

There are two types of dentistry. These types of dentistry are divided into the functional necessity and the cosmetic dentistry groups. Function dentistry can be considered to be any type of dental work that absolutely needs to be done to restore form and function. Cosmetic dentistry mostly refers to upgrading and maintaining the appearance of the mouth. However, cosmetic dentistry can also overlap with functional dentistry when it comes to reconstructive surgery. Dental implants are an example of the crossover effect of cosmetic and functional dentistry. Read on to learn more about dental implants and how they can improve both your appearance and quality of life.

What are Dental Implants?

A lost tooth can be a serious issue. It might impact your ability to eat or speak properly. It can leave you open to the development of oral diseases. It can also cause you to develop low self-esteem issues due to the change in your appearance. A dental implant can correct this issue. Thee dental implant procedure is designed to replace a lost or damaged tooth with an artificial tooth.

There are several types of dental implants available, but the most commonly utilized method is the endosteal implant. It is comprised of three distinct components that are designed to be implanted or installed at different times in order to create a new tooth. These components are the base, abutment, and crown. The typical dental implant procedure takes place in the following stages:

1. Once all initial diagnostics and tests are performed the dentist will cut the gums and implant a screw-shaped device directly into the jawbone. This device is known as the base component of an endosteal implant. The base will perform a similar function to the root of a natural tooth. It will fuse with the jawbone and become the anchor for the implanted tooth. A healing period will take place after the base is implanted. The time that this takes is variable and can last for several months.
2. After the base has fused with the jawbone completely, the dentist will cut the gums once more and install the second component, the abutment. This rod or cone shaped device is inserted into the base. It will connect the base to the crown and hold the crown steady after the crown is properly adjusted. A short healing period of a few weeks will occur after this stage. This will give the gums time to heal.
3. The final stage will involve the placement and adjustment of the third component, the crown. The crown is a prosthetic tooth fashioned to look like a real tooth for the purposes of appearance and function. The adjustment period can vary in length, but once the crown is properly set and adjusted you will have a new tooth that can potentially last a life time.

Are Dental Implants Safe and Effective?

Yes, dental implants are considered to be one of the safest and most effective tooth loss treatments available. They have a 95+% success rate after five years. They do not need to be removed and can be treated like a natural tooth. The material used to fashion the crown will determine how long the new tooth lasts. The materials used vary greatly in price. A single implant can cost between $1500 to over $10000 due to variances in material costs, needed dental services, and location. The average cost in America is $4250. 

An inexpensive acrylic crown might only last a few years before becoming chipped or cracked, while a porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconium crown can last for several decades with little wear and tear. Once your new implant is installed you will be able to eat preferred foods, and speak clearly again. A properly made crown will look no different than a normal tooth. It will be hard to notice unless it is specifically pointed out. You can have multiple implants placed if you have lost or damaged several teeth. In worst case scenarios you will be able to have several implants installed as anchors for dentures that replace all of your teeth.