Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Ahmed Salem on Dental Implants
Dr. Ahmed Salem is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Implants.
Q. What are dental implants?
A. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root used in dentistry to support restorations that resemble a tooth or group of teeth.
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
A. Appearance - dental implants look far more esthetic as they are situated in to the structure of your bone and will prevent bone loss and further gum recession. The implants look and act more like your natural teeth as compared to loose fitting dentures and ill fitting bridgework.
Q. How long does an implant last?
A. As with any procedure dealing with living bone and natural functions, there can be no guarantee. However, when tested dental implants are placed by specially trained dentists, they can have a success rate of over 90 percent. In fact, with effective oral care at home and regular dental visits, dental implants have lasted as long as 20 years.
Q. What are implants made of?
A. Implants rely on titanium fixtures inserted into the jawbone. Most implants are made of titanium, which is very effective at fusing with living bone (osseointegration).
Q. Who is a candidate for implants?
A. Anyone in reasonable health who wants to replace missing teeth is a candidate. You must have enough bone in the area of the missing teeth to provide for the anchorage of the implants. Some people are missing all their teeth and most of those are excellent candidates for dental implants, but today, we use implants to replace small bridges, removable partial dentures and even missing single teeth.
Q. How are dental implants placed?
A. The process is a surgical one that is usually performed under local anesthesia. First, an incision is made in the gum to expose the jaw bone. The implant is placed in the jaw and then covered with the gum. During the following three to six months, the implant is not visible while the bone grows tightly around it to hold it firmly in place. After the three to six months a second minor surgical procedure is performed. A small metal post, called a connector or abutment, is attached to the part of the implant that projects through the gum. Additional healing time is needed, from one to several weeks, and the new tooth or teeth, are then attached to the connector or abutment.
Q. How long does it take?
A. The length of treatment varies with the individual problem, but the average is between three and nine months. Completion may take longer depending on the healing process and the amount of time needed for the fabrication, construction and development of the artificial teeth.
Q. How to contact Dr. Salem if we have further questions?
A. Dr Salem can be reached by calling (916) 683-3841 or, by email
dentoahmed@yahoo.com
info@wackforddental.com
