Lethbridge Dentistry - Implants

Healthy roots are just as important for your teeth as they are for trees!

A solid root structure is instrumental in maintaining healthy teeth. Damaged roots cause tooth rot, decay and can lead to tooth loss.

A dental implant can be used to replace a tooth root. Implants are an anchor for replacement teeth. The implant is inserted into the jawbone, and then the false tooth, also called a "pontic”, is attached.

implants dental Made of titanium, which fuses well with bone, implants create a strong support structure which will hold your false tooth to your jaw for the rest of your life.

There are three different types of dental implants.

One, called a root form implant, is a screw type of implant which is inserted directly into the jawbone, under the gums.

The second, called a plate form implant, is similar to a root form implant. The difference is that a plate form implant is set directly on top of the jawbone, under the gums. This type of implant is used when the jawbone is too narrow or short - a condition usually caused by disease.

Third, if the jawbone has severe deterioration, the third type of implant must be used. Called a subperiosteal implant, it is a custom-made, artificial jawbone. Creating this implant is an intricate, surgical procedure. Fortunately, many patients do just fine with either a root or plate form implant.

dental implants Once your implant is installed, the artificial tooth or teeth, are installed. Unlike dentures, these teeth are not removable; they are permanent and behave like your natural teeth.