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The answer of the question, what are dental implants and when are they used? is, dental implants are artificial teeth that are implanted into the jaw bone to correct missing teeth. So, in other words, they are fake teeth attached to your jaw, and they are used when you need a fake tooth.

Even though permanent teeth do not grow back like baby teeth do, if you lose a tooth, you don't have to have permanent gaps in your smile. If you have had accidents, diseases, or tooth decay you can now erase the effects of these problems from your smile with dental implants. Dental implants are a long lasting way to correct any smile with a false tooth that looks, and can be used like the real thing.

So, how do they work exactly? Well, dental implants start with a titanium screw that is inserted into the jaw bone surgically. What happens is your surgeon, or dentist will cut open your gums to expose the bone, then a hole is drilled into your jaw bone and a titanium post, that is left slightly rough, is screwed in. Titanium is the metal of choice because it allows the surrounding bone to grow into and around it. The jaw bone will eventually grow around, and attach to the screw itself, and it will become a permanent fixture. Once it is in, a false tooth is placed on top of it. The screw will last pretty much forever, although the tooth may have to be replaced every 5-10 years or so. After the screw has been inserted, the gums are stitched together. Don't worry, if you get dental implants you will be under anesthesia at the time to relieve discomfort and pain.

This is surgery, and while you can go to work the day after, there is a healing process that takes some time. Bones don't regenerate over night, unless you live in Hogwarts. So, your dentist will give you some pointers on how to heal properly, and what you can eat, and when you can start treating your new teeth like the real thing. During this process of healing, it is critical you*re your dental hygiene is impeccable. Infections, bacteria, etc. can cause the implant to fail. If this happens, you went through money, pain, and time for nothing. So, don't waste these things, brush, floss, use mouthwash, limit sugared foods, etc. It can take several weeks or several months for implants to be fully anchored and ready to go. In the mean time, the crown will not be placed on the screw until the bone has grown around the screw to anchor it, so you will have a metal rod in your mouth, clean around it well, but carefully. Of course after the screw has been securely imbedded into your jaw bone, the crown or artificial tooth will be attached.

Dental implants look, and eventually will feel like natural teeth. They are used in any circumstance where a tooth has been lost. You have to have a jaw bone to get dental implants, and you have to be willing to obtain a permanent fixture in your mouth. They are a big benefit over dentures or bridgework because they don't have the discomfort or difficulty that comes along with them. They also offer greater comfort while chewing and greater confidence, and can improve one's ability to speak clearly.

Overall, dental implants are a great way for people to replace lost teeth in a natural and comfortable way.