Final answer:
The implant often used as an alternative for bridges or removable dentures is the dental implant. Made from titanium, these implants integrate with the jawbone providing a stable base for artificial teeth. Dental implants preserve facial contours and provide durability and stability unparalleled by other dental prostheses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The implant generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures is a dental implant. Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.
Dental implants are made of titanium, a material that is well-tolerated by bone and integrates well with bone tissue. Once the implant has been placed in the jawbone, osseointegration begins. This is a process where the jawbone fuses with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A post, known as an abutment, is then attached to the implant, which protrudes through the gum. This abutment provides the attachment point for the replacement tooth or teeth.
Unlike removable dentures, which can be unstable and uncomfortable, or bridges, which depend on adjacent healthy teeth as anchors, dental implants do not negatively impact the surrounding teeth and are known for their durability and stability. However, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, as patients must have sufficient bone density and a strong immune system to heal properly and support the implants. Additionally, the process of receiving dental implants involves multiple steps and surgeries, and it requires a significant amount of time from initial placement to the final placement of the artificial tooth or teeth.