A dental implant is an artificial tooth root replacement used in prosthetic dentistry. It has several types, with major classifications of osseointegrated and fibrointegrated implant. These types of prosthetic dentistry support restorations that will resemble a tooth or group of teeth to restore esthetic and dental imperfections.

Considerations

There are a few factors that will make or break the workings of a dental implant.

Bone and tissue integrity. First off, there should be enough bone in the jaw that should also be strong enough to support and hold the implant. If there isn’t, then additional procedures may be performed such as bone graft procedure or bone augmentation. Also, natural teeth and supporting tissues surrounding the site of implant should be in good health.

Final occlusion. Another factor to address is the functionality of the final implant restoration. Concerns such as the force that is placed on the bone implant—ex. chewing, among others—should be considered because unequal load from tolerance of the implant interface can fracture the bone.

Type of prosthesis. The type of prosthesis to be fabricated must first be determined in order to finalize the number, diameter, length, and thread pattern. This is a lengthy procedure since the case must be reversely engineered; consultation must be done with a periodontist, endodontist, oral surgeon, or co-professional involve in the treatment, impressions of the patient’s jawbones and teeth must be taken, and diagnostic examinations such as CAT scans to be done. All these actions are necessary for preliminary assessment. There are a number of professionals involve in this treatment, each with different contributing specialty.

Computer simulation. This software bases its data on the CAT scan result and it allows virtual implant surgical placement. This technology gives a visual feel and a high level of predictability of the procedure’s result. It predicts the vital anatomy, implant characteristics, bone quality, and the need for bone grafting.

Complements

There are no contraindications for dental implants. However, there are complementary procedures to be done prior to the main procedure.

Sinus lifting. A specialized professional will thicken inadequate parts of the atrophic maxilla towards the sinus through bone transplants or bone expletive substances, resulting to a better site for the implantation.

Bone grafting. Since sufficient bone is needed in three dimensions to integrate the implant securely, it will then be necessary to have adequate maxillary or mandibular bone. The result is improved bone height to provide ample anchor for the implant.

Success and Failure

The general consensus for implants success rate is an approximate 95%. Of course, the success hugely depends on the professional’s skill, quality and quantity of the bone and tissue anchor, and the patient’s degree of oral hygiene.

Failure of a dental implant can be related to many factors such as:

• Failure to osseointegrate correctly

• Susceptibility to periodontal diseases

• Risky behaviors such as smoking

• Wear and tear of the implant

Such conditions are preventable in varying degrees. Thus it is always best to research and consult from established professionals, practice consistent dental hygiene, and avoid derogatory habits.

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