Dentistry has evolved significantly over the years, and modern dentists have an arsenal of sophisticated techniques at their disposal. Among these advances, surgical implant procedures have become increasingly popular, largely due to their success rate. Read on to find out more about dental implant surgery and the methods at the disposal of many dental practitioners today.
Dental Implants
Implant dentistry is a widely used method for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants typically consist of three parts: the implant itself, an abutment, and a crown. The implant is a post usually made from titanium. It is surgically inserted into the jawbone, serving as a replacement for the tooth's root. The abutment connects the implant to the crown, which is the visible part of the tooth. Favored for its natural appearance and long-term durability, implant dentistry of this kind also helps preserve the jawbone and facial structure. This is because the implant stimulates the bone, preventing its resorption. An implant dentistry procedure often takes several months, as the implants must integrate with the jawbone before the crown can be added.
Sinus Lifts
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that addresses the insufficient bone height in the upper jaw for dental implant placement. During this procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted to create space for the insertion of bone graft material. This graft helps to increase the volume and height of the jawbone, making it possible for further implant dentistry to follow. Sinus lifts are typically recommended for patients who have experienced bone loss due to tooth extractions, gum disease, or age-related bone resorption.
Ridge Augmentation
Performed to restore the natural contour of the gums and jawbone, ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure that sometimes follows tooth loss or extraction. When a tooth is removed, the bone that supported the tooth may begin to deteriorate, resulting in an indentation in the gums and jaw. Ridge augmentation involves the placement of bone graft material into the tooth socket, encouraging the growth of new bone and providing a solid foundation for future dental implant placement.
Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)
GBR is a technique used to promote the growth of new bone in areas where bone loss has occurred. This procedure is often employed when the jawbone lacks the necessary volume or density to support an implant dentistry procedure. GBR involves the placement of a barrier membrane over the bone defect, which helps to maintain space for the growth of new bone while preventing the invasion of surrounding soft tissues.
For more information on implant dentistry, contact a professional near you.
Share15 May 2023
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