People need dental implants when they lose a tooth or multiple teeth. If you’re not familiar with how dental implants work, here’s a quick rundown: a titanium post acts as a tooth root, and is surgically placed into the jawbone underneath the gum line. A replacement tooth or bridge (multiple teeth) is then mounted onto the post. Dental implants are permanent replacement teeth which, unlike dentures, can’t be removed. They can last for over 20 years in most cases, making them the best long-term option. As dental technology advances, so has implant dentistry. It is now less invasive, less time consuming, and less painful to get a dental implant.
These are some of the major advances in implant dentistry:
- Better imaging – CT scans and other 3D imaging technology now make it easier for dentists to see the quality of the bone where the titanium post will be placed, how the implant will fit in with the surrounding teeth, and any other disease or decay that may not be visible. Dentists can also use imaging during the procedure to make sure they are placing the implant correctly, and after the procedure to make sure it is healing.
- Better implant design – There are now mini dental implants that can be placed without a more invasive procedure. Many times mini dental implants don’t require gum grafting (taking gum tissue from one portion of the mouth to cover an area where a tooth root is exposed) or removing bone. They can also be placed in areas that may be too small for a conventional implant.
- New implant post technology – New posts make implants last longer. Some produce a biological seal around the post that helps it affix more naturally to the bone and surrounding tissue. New types of grooves in the post make them integrate faster with the bone. This also makes the implants more stable if they can become part of the bone more quickly. Many new posts also require less preparation of the bone and gum tissue before inserting them.
- Tilted dental implants – Placing dental implants on a tilt or angle helps reduce one of the most common complications of dental implants, which is changes to the sinuses and sinus infections.
- 3D printed custom implants – With the rise of 3D printing comes the possibility of printed, custom implants. When standard posts or the abutments (where the implant affixes to the post) won’t fit, a custom implant would work the best for the patient and provide the most comfort. These are still being researched and tested.
These advancements will help increase the longevity of implants and improve their success rates, which prevents patients from needing replacement implants. Dr. Djuric has been one of the leading implant dentists in the Gulf Coast for over 25 years. If you are looking for not only a qualified, but also caring implant dentist, give us a call today: (850) 542-4428. We offer free consultations: