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Dental Implants
Dental implantology is a new branch of dentistry which involves the reconstruction of missing teeth and their supporting structures with natural or synthetic (alloplastic, allogenic or autogenous) substitutes.
If you are a denture wearer, you will be all too familiar with the suffering and discomfort associated with painful dentures that do not stay in place when eating and talking. This can cause mental and physical suffering and may also lead to loss of self confidence.
Even if they are constructed to the highest possible specifications, there are many problems associated with dentures and conventional restorations (e.g. construction of dental bridges require cutting and grinding of usually healthy adjacent teeth). Once the natural teeth are lost, the bone in which they were embedded begins to shrink. This process, known as bone atrophy (similar to muscle wasting when limbs are no longer used) can alter facial appearance and may necessitate the periodic replacement of dentures. Bone loss often leads to functional and cosmetic deterioration of the oral and dental structures.
Many people soon discover that dentures are a poor substitute for their natural teeth and simple tasks such as eating or even talking can be a source of anxiety, pain and discomfort for the rest of their lives. Yet, thanks to an accidental discovery, innovation, scientific study and recent developments in biomaterials, dental and medical sciences, the suffering endured by people who wear dentures, is no longer necessary.
In 1952, Professor Per-Ingvar Branemark, a Swedish surgeon, whilst conducting research into the healing patterns of bone tissue, accidentally discovered that when pure titanium comes into direct contact with the living bone tissue, the two literally grow together to form a permanent biological adhesion. He named this phenomenon "osseointegration". Today, modern dental implants, developed from the principles of osseointegration are routinely used in hundreds of clinics and hospitals world-wide, and sought after by thousands of patients because they have been proven to provide comfortable, permanent and attractive tooth replacements as an alternative to removable dentures and conventional bridges.
Benefits of Dental Implants
If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, you may benefit from dental implants:
Implants bond biologically to the living bone tissue. - Once united with the bone, they support your teeth firmly and safely.
Implants restore function and aesthetics to normal levels.
Eating, talking and chewing need no longer be painful experiences.
Dental implants prevent progressive bone atrophy and shrinkage.
Dental implants help to preserve bone levels and a youthful facial appearance.
Like artificial joints, they have a proven scientific basis.
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