Dental implants are artificial tooth roots embedded into the jaw to hold an artificial tooth or permanent bridge in place. They are useful for patients who have lost one or more teeth due to decay, gum disease or various types of injuries. Ideal for patients with good oral health, a Tooth Implant Dubuque is a permanent alternative to removable dentures.
Implants are available in two varieties, endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are typically metal screws, cylinders or blades that are fixed in place in the jaw bone. For patients who are medically unable to receive the endosteal version, subperiosteal implants are used. These are embedded within the gum tissue with a portion of the metal frame extending through the gum to hold the artificial tooth in place.
A periodontist, a doctor who specializes in the bone, gum and connective tissues associated with the teeth, will be responsible for determining if dental implants are appropriate for the patient in question and for performing the surgical implant procedure. For those lacking only one tooth, a single implant and a crown can be used to replace it. In a situation where several teeth are missing, implant supported bridges or permanent partial dentures may be used. Those missing all their natural teeth may benefit from full dentures.
Patients who are missing upper back teeth may need to undergo corrective procedures prior to receiving implants. This area lacks the adequate amount of bone necessary for a successful implant, and receiving a Tooth Implant Dubuque in this area could result in sinus damage. A sinus augmentation will raise the sinus floor and allow for bone development, which decreases the risk of sinus injury and increases the amount of bone available for implantation.
Those suffering from upper or lower jaw deformities may benefit from a ridge modification. During this procedure, the bone is exposed and filled with a bone-like material to build up the ridge enough to allow for a successful implant.
After any corrective procedures and Tooth Implant Dubuque, follow up visits will be scheduled with the periodontist. This will ensure the area surrounding the implant remains healthy and confirm there are no problems with the implant itself.
