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$Title{What Are Dental Implants and When Can They Be Used?}
$Subject{tooth mouth dentures dental implant implants teeth titanium endosteal
root substitute jawbone bridge special procedures procedure surgery operation
operations jaw anchors screws cylinders blades}
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Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Are Dental Implants and When Can They Be Used?


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QUESTION:  I have just had a tooth removed from what was a perfect mouth.  I
hate the thought that I am now on the inevitable road to dentures.  My friend
told me I might avoid this, if I used a dental implant, but I know little
about this.  Could you please tell me what they are and if they can be used by
anyone.  Your information would be greatly appreciated.

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ANSWER:  Since dental implants are not an area of knowledge where I possess a
great deal of information, I turned to a specialist in this technique for
help.  Dr. Linda Cruickshank, M.Ed., D.M.D. of Marshfield, Mass. is a member
of the American Academy of Implant Surgery, and a graduate of the Harvard
Medical School Implant Program.  Her "consultation" provided the information
contained in this answer to your question.
     Dental implants are the modern method for replacing missing teeth.  They
can prevent dentures from slipping, gaps showing from missing teeth, or
premature loss of remaining teeth.  Implants replace dentures and partials
with bridges that have less bulk and a more esthetic appearance.  Implants are
permanent.
     Several types of implants are currently made from titanium and can be
coated with special material to encourage bone growth.  Of the many implants
currently used, the most common is endosteal (in the bone).  During the
initial surgery, the dentist places the implants or anchors (screws,
cylinders, or blades) into the jawbone.  Screws or cylinders are the most
common types of endosteal implants, but blades are used when the jawbone is
narrow.  The implant process takes from to three to nine months because of the
time required for the jawbone and gums to grow around the implant and for the
new teeth to be made.  The patient usually resumes normal activity within 24
hours of the surgical procedure.
     The implant is a root substitute.  After the implant is placed into the
jawbone, the marrow is induced to produce new bone tissue which grows to
contact the implant surface.  The implant thus becomes fixed to the bone and
can withstand the forces of chewing, and becomes the attachment for permanent
teeth.  Indeed the implant functions just as a natural tooth, conserving the
height and width of the bone.  This healthy relationship is in marked contrast
to the effects of a denture on the underlying gum and bone tissue.
     As a general rule, implants can be used for most anyone, providing their
jawbone is high enough, wide enough and dense enough for the implant to fit.
Bone grafts can be added if necessary.  The tissue must not be infected at the
time of placement.  Some situations which may prevent the use of implants are:
an out-of-control diabetic, an autoimmune deficiency, patients whose jaws have
been irradiated in the area, or those who have conditions that retard or
prevent the healing process.
     Implants can:  replace a single tooth; eliminate a partial denture;
stabilize a denture; retain and support a denture or support a complete
bridge.
     Dr. Cruickshank cautions patients to obtain a second opinion if they are
told they do not qualify for implants.  A more knowledgeable practitioner may
think otherwise.  She also suggests requesting the educational and training
background of the professional you consult, and inquiring about their
experience in performing implants.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.