IF you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.

Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath your gums. Dental implants are the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth. They will allow you to confidently eat, smile, laugh, talk, play, and enjoy all of your regular activities of everyday life without thinking about your teeth.

TYPES OF IMPLANTS

Various types of dental implants are available. They include:

1. Endosteal implants: These are the most commonly used type of implant and are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone.

They are typically shaped like small screws, cylinders or plates. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post individually or grouped on a bridge or denture.

2. Subperiosteal implants: These consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. This type of implant may be used in patients who have a shallow jawbone and cannot or do not want to undergo bone grafting to rebuild it. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone.

Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.

HOW WILL THE IMPLANT BE PLACED?

First, the implant, which looks like a screw or cylinder, is placed into your jaw. Over the next two to six months, the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth. During this time, a temporary tooth replacement option can be worn over the implant site.

Often, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implant and attach an extension. This temporary healing cap completes the foundation on which your new tooth will be placed. Your gums will be allowed to heal for a couple of weeks following this procedure.

There are some implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this second step. These systems use an implant which already has the extension piece attached. Your periodontist or dentist will advise you on which system is best for you.

Finally, a replacement tooth called a crown will be created for you by your dentist and attached to a small metal post, called an abutment. After a short time, you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak. Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.

ORAL CARE TIPS FOR IMPLANT

Most dental implants are successful, and there are a few steps you can take to help ensure success and make your implant last.

1. Practise good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes (brushes that slide between teeth) can help clean the hard-to-reach areas around your implant.

2. Quit smoking. Smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure.

3. Visit your dentist. Cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way.

4. Avoid chewing on hard foods. Don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy, because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710 or visit the website www.dentalplace4u.com