The process of placing an artificial tooth which is then surgically anchored into a person's jawbone to replace one that is missing or to replace a series of them is what is commonly known as a dental implant. This procedure has become the best choice for patients want to avoid having to use a partial or a complete denture which may be a bit of a hassle when wearing it, speaking, eating or doing any other activity. Partial or complete dentures are also a cosmetic no-no because most people would react negatively when they see someone take off a denture right in front of them.

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Dental implants also offer the benefit of allowing a person to conserve the tooth structure and the implants also provide the benefits of being virtually cavity free. These artificial pieces which are put in place in order to substitute a missing tooth are in the very durable and tough, they are made his way in order to resemble the look and feel of a natural tooth. However, dental implants are not completely indestructible which is why it is recommended to follow oral hygiene routines in order to preserve a healthy amount after a dental implant has been successful.

As easy and as nice as it may sound, not all the dental implants that are performed are successful, the average success rate is of 90%, the remaining 10% are obviously figures that are mostly due to patients whose health is not an optimal condition. The number one requirement which needs to be met in order to fall within the 90% group of people who receive successful implants is to have good health. Conditions which affect the osseointegration phase are:

-- diabetes

-- heavy alcohol drinkers who suffer from diseases called by alcohol

-- smokers who suffer from periodontal diseases

The bone quality/density must be adequate in order to hold the implant in place, bone loss is also a very common cause of implant failure so people who suffer from a condition which attacks the bones may not be good candidates for an oral implant. A loss can also cause the loss of the tooth because the underlying structure is no longer able to hold it/them in place.

A successful tooth implant can restore the functionality of a person's bite, can be aesthetically pleasing content effectively replace a missing tooth.

When you are not happy with your smile, it can affect your self confidence. You may be embarrassed implant to smile around others because you have a missing tooth. A dental implant might be the solution to your problem.

An implant is usually made of titanium and is used as an artificial tooth root. A dentist, periodontist or oral surgeon drills a hole into your jawbone and places the implant. Sedation or a local anesthesia is used for the procedure.

There will be some pain after your surgery, but an over-the-counter medication may be enough to reduce it. You will likely be instructed to eat only soft foods for the first week after you get an implant.

After three to six months, the implant becomes a permanent part of your jawbone. The dental professional will then attach an abutment to the implant. A crown is placed over the abutment.

A crown is an artificial tooth that matches the color of your natural teeth. It blends in so well with your own teeth that no one will know that it is not a real tooth. The process of placing the crown requires several visits to the dentist or periodontist and may take as long as two months.

In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, a crown helps you chew your food more easily. This means that you will be able to eat a wider variety of foods than you did when you had a missing tooth.

In order to get an implant, you must have a healthy jawbone that can support it. You should also be in good overall health to get an implant. If you have gum disease, heart disease, diabetes or other type of health problem, you may not be a good candidate for an implant. Your dentist can tell you if an implant is an option for you.

Your dentist may not recommend an implant if you smoke. Smoking has been shown to damage dental implants.

You must practice good dental hygiene when you get an implant. You have to floss and brush your teeth regularly, or your crown could become damaged and have to be removed.

If you are a healthy person and practice good oral hygiene, then your dental implant and crown can last a lifetime. With the help of an implant, you can fill in a gap caused by a missing tooth and get a smile that you will be proud to show.