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Dental Implant Advancements

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Advancements in dentistry, such as modern dental implants, have allowed patients to obtain treatments that help improve their speech, chewing, comfort, appearance, and even confidence. Dental implants have successfully been placed since the 1950s; however, with the improvement of technology over the years, dental implants have improved as well. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, a dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically inserted into the bone where a tooth is missing in order to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth, appearing and functioning the same as one’s natural teeth. A dental implant consists of two processes: a dental examination and the implant …show more content…

In addition, it allows for the dentist to see the quality and quantity of bone in the area where the implant is needed. If the patient does not contain enough bone in the area where the implant must be placed, then the patient may need a transplant of bone tissue through a process called bone grafting. Once the patient has been examined and bone grafting has been completed, if necessary, then he or she can schedule an appointment for the implant placement. Before the surgical placement of the implant, the patient must be given local anesthesia to eliminate pain. Then, small incisions are made into the gum tissue of the area where the implant will be placed, creating flaps that expose the bone. Once the bone is exposed, the dentist slowly drills into the bone, forming a small hole where the implant can fit perfectly. During this process, a patient can expect to feel gentle pressure, minimal vibration, and plenty of water-cooling. When the hole has been made, the dentist takes out the sterilized implant and places it inside the hole. The implant appears like a titanium screw. Throughout and after this entire

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