When faced
with missing teeth in the past, patients had few options. They could either not
address the issue, or they could get fitted for dentures that had to be removed
nightly. Implantology in dentistry has
allowed patients to have a more permanent, and on occasion, faster means to
correct the problems of empty teeth sockets.
Dental implants come in two varieties, standard and immediate. Both types of implants permanently place artificial teeth in an empty socket. When applying a standard dental implant, the dentist must first place the screw that will fold the artificial crown in its place. Then, after allowing three to six months for the metal to fuse to the bone, the dentist can attach the crown. Some patients may not want to wait that length of time for the replacement tooth, and in those situations, they can seek immediate dental implants instead.
What is an Immediate Dental Implant?
Immediate dental
implants allow the implant and the crown to be placed at the same time.
Along with the instant cosmetic benefit, by placing the implant and crown on
the same visit, the dentist can allow the patient to return to normal eating
habits. Standard implants need a restricted diet to ensure the screw is not
damaged before placement of the crown.
Who is a Candidate for Immediate Dental Implants?
Typically,
conditions or habits that impact the health of the teeth or jawbone will lead a
dentist to recommend standard implants over immediate. The jawbone needs to be
healthy for the implant to hold its spot so patients who grind their teeth,
smoke, or take medications that can affect bone growth will have to rely on
standard implants. Standard implants can allow the dentist to attempt to
improve bone growth in the jaw before placing the implants.
With advancements in implantology, dentists can provide
patients with effective techniques to permanently restore their smiles.
