Implantologist
An implantologist is a dental specialist who is trained to place and restore dental implants. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They act as artificial tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
The implant placement procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, and most patients experience little to no pain during or after the procedure. The implant is placed into the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone over a period of several months. This process is known as osseointegration.
Once the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment, or connector, is placed on top of the implant. This abutment serves as the foundation for the replacement tooth, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture. The replacement tooth is then custom made to match the shape and color of the patient’s natural teeth.
Dental implants offer several benefits over traditional tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures. They look and feel like natural teeth, they can last a lifetime with proper care, and they do not require the grinding down of adjacent teeth, as is often required for bridges.
If you are missing one or more teeth, or have a damaged tooth that cannot be saved, dental implants may be an option for you. It’s important to see an implantologist for a consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.