Implants

What is an implant?

According to the FDA, dental implants are “medical devices surgically implanted into the jaw to restore a person’s ability to chew or their appearance. They provide support for artificial (fake) teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.”

A dental implant system consist of a dental implant body and dental implant abutment. It may also include an abutment fixation screw. The dental implant body is surgically inserted in the jawbone in place of the tooth root. The dental implant abutment is usually attached to the implant body by the abutment fixation screw and extends through gums into the mouth to support the attached artificial teeth (also called “restoration”).

The FDA lists the benefits of dental implant systems as follows:
  • Restores the ability to chew
  • Restores cosmetic appearance
  • Helps keep the jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss
  • Preserves the health of the surrounding bone and gums
  • Helps keep adjacent (nearby) teeth stable
  • Improves quality of life

Different types of dental implant systems

The dental implant system that is right for your mouth depends on the number of teeth missing, your health, and the state of health of your mouth.
We typicaly make a distinction between 2 dental implant systems: (a) single tooth implants, and (b) implant-retained bridges. Within the latter category, we find the full-mouth dental implant systems, which are designed to replace all your upper and/or lower teeth at the same time.

Single-tooth implants

Single-tooth implants are a great option for replacing individual teeth, as opposed to conventional bridges. Watch this video.

Implant-retained bridges

These implant systems are designed to replace more than 3 teeth at a time. A conventional bridge can span up to 2 missing teeth. It is installed overexisting adjacent teeth. Implant-retained bridges offer a better solution when part of your mouth has multiple teeth missing, as the bridge is not anchored on the remaining teeth but on implants installed in your maxillary (jaw). Though not suitable for all individuals, implant-retained bridges are more durable and stronger than conventional bridges. Ultimately, we will review with you the options that you have after having conducted a thorough assessment of your mouth and jaw bone. Watch this video to learn more about implant-retained bridges.