Implants/Bone Graft

A dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants are a fixed solution for replacing missing teeth and also provide stability for removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances. Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

There are many advantages to having dental implants:

• Appearance
• Self-esteem
• Oral health

Can anyone get a dental implant?

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. However, anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for a dental implant. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They also must be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Heavy smokers, people suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders -- such as diabetes or heart disease -- or patients who have had radiation therapy to the head/neck area need to be evaluated on an individual basis. If you are considering implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.

What is a bone graft?

Bone grafting is the replacement or augmentation of the portion of the jaw bone that anchors the teeth. It's a surgical procedure that's often done to reverse the loss or resorption of bone that may have occurred due to tooth loss, trauma, disease or ill-fitting dentures, and to rebuild the bone structure beneath the gums in preparation for the placement of dental implants or other tooth replacements.

When bone graft is implanted in the jaw, it doesn't just simply fill a void in the bone; it may also help promote new bone growth in that location. When successful, bone grafting can restore both the height and width of your jaw bone.

To learn more, visit our Kay Dental Implants site.