Millions of Americans deal with tooth loss, making dental implants a compelling solution. These implants consist of three primary components: a titanium post anchored to the jawbone, a crown resembling a natural tooth, and an abutment connecting the crown to the implant screw. They closely mimic natural teeth in appearance and function, virtually indistinguishable except to your dental team.

Yet, despite their similarities, dental implants are intricate, and there’s much to learn. Partnering with a skilled oral surgeon at Topeka Oral Surgery can provide crucial insights before making decisions. 

Here’s what you should know:

Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, surgically inserted into the jawbone. They need a healthy bone structure to function correctly. However, if a tooth has been missing for an extended period, the surgical site may lack sufficient bone to support the implant. In such cases, a dental bone graft will be required to ensure we can create a foundation that can support a dental implant for >20 years.

Therefore, don’t be surprised if your dental implant specialist in Topeka recommends bone grafting before proceeding with the implant procedure. While it adds an extra step to your journey toward a beautiful smile, it is essential for a successful outcome and to have a dental implant for decades!

Missing teeth not only affect appearance but also leave a gap where the tooth root used to be. Unlike dentures, dental implants provide a comprehensive solution by replicating the entire tooth structure. A titanium screw is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it gradually bonds over time. An abutment is then attached to secure the prosthetic tooth or crown firmly in place, ensuring stability without movement.

Teeth do more than aid in chewing and enhancing your smile; they help maintain the health and density of the jawbone. Each tooth’s root stimulates the surrounding bone, keeping it dense. When teeth are lost, this stimulation stops, leading to bone resorption, a process where the jawbone deteriorates due to lack of use. The Figure below shows how the gums and ridge collapse when a bone graft is not placed after the tooth extraction (Top portion of the image below. While bottom portion of image shows how tissue looks after a bone graft).

Traditional restorative techniques like dentures can restore the appearance and function of teeth but fall short in preserving bone health. Dentures rest on the gums and do not stimulate the bone like natural tooth roots. Over time, denture wearers may experience significant bone loss, affecting facial structure, oral health, and the fit and functionality of the dentures.