Dental Implants | Salt Lake City Dentist

Missing teeth can be debilitating to a persons self-esteem, not to mention the difficulty that can be experienced just trying to enjoy a meal! In the past bridges and dentures have been used to solve this problem, however the growing trend is dental implants. Dental implants are a far better solution for tooth replacement in terms of comfort, appearance, functionality, and long term viability. They can provide a natural, beautiful smile and any candidate is a good candidate!

A dental implant is typically a titanium screw-like fixture that is secured into the jawbone and acts as a foundation for a false tooth. The implant fuses to the bone in a process called osseointegration. A dental implant can be used to replace one or all teeth. An assessment of the bone density is necessary in order to determine the overall quantity and quality of bone tissue available. In some cases, bone grafting may be required before a dental implant procedure can occur. The type of dental implant and procedure vary depending on the number and location of missing teeth, the bone density in the location where the implant(s) is to be placed, and the spacing available for the replacement tooth (teeth).

1) Root Form Implant

* This is the basic screw-type implant that models the root of the tooth. This type of implant is utilized when the space for the proposed implanted tooth is sufficient and the bone has good density. Anesthesia is used to sedate the patient. The dentist will expose the jawbone, insert the implant, and then secure the gums around the implant with stitches. The healing process generally takes three (3) to six (6) months.

2) Plate Form Implant

* When the jawbone is too narrow and not suitable for bone grafting, a flat and long plate implant is implemented. The process and healing time is similar to that of the root form implant.

3) Subperiosteal Implant

* If the jawbone does not offer enough width or height, a subperiosteal implant is used. The implant rests on the top of the jawbone and under the gums. This procedure is completed one of two ways. The first option is for the dentist to sedate the patient, expose the jawbone, take an impression of the jawbone, and have a custom implant fabricated for placement at another time. The second option is to take a CAT scan of the jawbone and model and construct the implant based on the scan. Only a single surgery is necessary with the latter option.

The cost of dental implants and procedures can start around $1,250, but the price quickly escalates based upon the number of implants required, any special considerations necessary, the type of implant, and so on. To determine which implant is right for you and your specific needs, your best option is to speak with a dentist experienced with dental implants. Contact Salt Lake City Dentist by visiting our website.