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What
was once an unusual or rare treatment has become part of everyday
dental practice. Results have become predictable and less problematic.
What is it? A dental implant is a titanium pin that can replace
a tooth root. Implants can replace a single tooth or a mouthful
of teeth, if the jaw has enough bone to support the implants. Using
a strong anesthetic to open the gum, the dentist opens the gum and
puts the implant in the bone. This is called the "first stage."
After waiting for the bone to heal, the dentist does the "second
stage." During the second stage the dentist screws a post into
the implant. The gum forms a collar around the post as it did around
the natural tooth.
This post, which is also called a healing cap or is sometimes called
an abutment, is the base on which the permanent cap rests. One advantage
of a single implant to replace a tooth is that adjacent teeth do
not have to be ground down to make a replacement as they do with
a bridge.
While dental implants are not suitable for everyone, they can help
some patients overcome denture problems and offer an alternative
to traditional bridges. If you, a family member or friend is interested,
contact your dentist for more information.
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