Surgical Insertion of an Implant

Prosthetic devices, such as bridges and dentures may not work for everyone, and may be due to reasons of an improper fit, an annoyance, or some people simply cannot wear them. Implants were designed to insert or implant an anchor that would connect prosthetic teeth to underlying bone as securely as natural teeth. There are various types of implants, but most are called endosseous because they are placed inside the bone. Endosseous implants, needless to say, require very careful insertion. The procedure is as follows: (1) An incision is made into the gum where the implants are to be inserted and the gum is pulled back to reflect the bony ridge; (2) Holes are drilled into the bone starting with a small pilot hole and is gradually enlarged; (3) The implants are cylindrical and are usually partially threaded. Each implant is slowly screwed into the bone until its top is level with the bone surface. A temporary protective cap is placed over it, and the gum tissue is sutured where the implants will remain secure and undisturbed from 4 to 12 months, and (4) This begins a second phase of surgery. A small incision is made over the implant site to expose it, and the temporary covers are removed, and in their place, titanium abutment cylinders are used. The abutments protrude slightly above the gum and will form the base for the prosthetic denture or bridge; (5) They are covered with plastic caps, and are sutured if necessary; (6) A new impression of the jaw is now taken. The protective caps are removed and devices called impression copings are used, and these become guides for the precise placement of the prosthetics as it is related to the abutment; (7) Screws or posts will fasten artificial teeth to the abutments. A denture fastened to an implant does not require a base, or an artificial gum to secure it in the mouth. Implanted bridges and dentures are stable and comfortable. They feel and function like normal teeth. There is virtually nothing that cannot be chewed with these types of restorative devices. Implants, however, cost several times more than other restorative dental devices.