Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option that restores both the function and appearance of the mouth. Implants enable patients to continue eating, speaking, and smiling like normal without the fear that their teeth will slip out of place. These benefits are due to a process called osseointegration that firmly anchors the implant within the jaw and creates a strong foundation for your new teeth.
The Role of Osseointegration in the Dental Implant Process
When unhealthy teeth are extracted, the entire tooth including the root is removed. This leaves a gap in patients’ smiles, allows other teeth to eventually shift out of place and can affect one’s ability to eat different foods. Before a new tooth can be placed, it needs a solid base to which it can be attached.
A small titanium post called a dental implant is inserted into the jawbone. Titanium is used not only because it is incredibly durable but also because it is biocompatible. The body readily accepts titanium with a low risk of rejection or adverse reactions.
Bone cells attach to the titanium and fuse it to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. The implant seamlessly integrates with the bone and acts as a replacement tooth root. This relationship is critical because without a root, there is no stimulation to the jawbone. The jaw can begin to resorb and lose density, leading to various oral health problems that put your other teeth at risk.
Dental implants are often preferred over dentures because dentures sit on top of the bone and do not help maintain bone volume. As the bone shrinks, dentures must be relined and refitted. With dental implants, osseointegration prevents resorption and preserves the jawbone, which allows the implant to last longer as well.
It generally takes around three months for the osseointegration process to be complete and for the implant to fully fuse with the bone. During this time, a temporary crown can be placed to improve aesthetics and help the gums form into the proper shape around the base of the tooth. Once the implant is securely fused in place, the restoration process can be completed by attaching a permanent crown.
Dental implants are cared for just like normal teeth, with regular brushing and flossing to keep them healthy. They can last indefinitely with proper oral hygiene and dental checkups, whereas dentures and other tooth replacement options typically have a shorter lifespan and must be replaced more often.
Restoring Your Smile with Dental Implants
Osseointegration is an integral part of achieving strong, stable dental implants and keeping the jaw healthy. Although osseointegration may take several weeks to complete, regaining full dental function is worth the wait. Chattanooga Periodontics & Dental Implants is happy to answer any other questions about dental implants or osseointegration on our website.
