Dental implants are the only permanent way to replace missing teeth, but there are some things you should know before getting them. Implants require surgery, and there is a risk of infection and other complications. You will also need healthy gums and bones to support the dental implant. Talk to a dentist that offers consultation about what to know before getting dental implants.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: Dental Implants and What They Do
Dental implants are an increasingly popular dental treatment. They consist of a metal post that acts as an artificial tooth root. The post is surgically implanted into the jawbone to support dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Unlike traditional dental prosthetics, dental implants are designed to mimic the natural function and appearance of real teeth.
Dental implants offer several benefits over other dental treatments. They are much more comfortable and secure than traditional dentures and can help preserve your face’s natural shape by reducing bone loss in the jaw.
Good Candidates for Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. You should have good general and oral health aside from your missing tooth and not be a smoker (smoking increases the risks of dental implant failure).
Dental implants are also available for people who have multiple missing teeth. An implant-supported denture or bridge supported by just four dental implants can be used to replace an entire row of teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a secure and durable foundation for artificial teeth. They can help to preserve bone mass and prevent gum deterioration. As a result, they can also help patients to maintain a more youthful appearance.
In addition to the functional benefits, a dental implant can also improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile. Because it is fused with the jawbone, a dental implant looks and feels like natural teeth. For patients who are concerned about their appearance, dental implants can be an excellent option for patients concerned about their appearance.
Process of Getting Dental Implants
The dental implant is placed in the jawbone and serves as a new root for the tooth. The dental implant is then capped with an abutment (connector) and a dental crown, which is made to match the colour and shape of the natural teeth.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind before getting dental implants:
- The surgery is minimally invasive and requires six to nine months of healing.
- The procedure has a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options, so it’s essential to check with your insurance company to see if they cover it.
- A dental implant may not be suitable for all patients. If you have an autoimmune disease, some types of cancer, or a blood disorder, you are not a candidate for a dental implant.
- You may need additional surgeries before the dental implant procedure. If you have insufficient jawbone density or thickness, you’ll need a sinus lift or bone graft to build up the bone tissue. If you have advanced gum disease, you’ll need periodontal therapy, including teeth scaling, root planing, or gum flap surgery, to eliminate infection and improve gum tissue health.
Risks and Length of Time Dental Implants Last
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, but they are not without risks. The most common complication is implant failure, which occurs when the implant does not bond with the bone.
Other risks include infection, damage to the surrounding teeth, and nerve injury. Dental implants offer many benefits, including improved appearance, increased chewing ability, and preserved jawbone health despite these risks.
Taking Care of My Dental Implants
You’ll need to brush and clean between your teeth regularly, just as you would with your natural teeth. Use an interdental brush or Waterpik as an alternative to floss. This is gentler on your gums and won’t leave floss strands or debris under your dental implant restoration. You should also use a non-alcoholic antibacterial mouthwash once daily to avoid infection.
Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or chew on non-food objects like pens. Although your dental implants can withstand intense bite pressure like your natural teeth, you should avoid chewing ice, nuts, or hard candy to prevent chips.
Arrange a Dental Consultation Near You
Dental implants are a popular and effective treatment for missing teeth. They offer a number of benefits over traditional dentures, including improved comfort, durability, and appearance.
To get the most out of your dental implant, it is crucial to be diligent about oral hygiene to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which could damage adjacent teeth and underlying gum tissue. If you need more information on what to know before getting dental implants, call Dental Spot at (02) 9158 6115 for a consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental implant procedure
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-implant
The all-on-four treatment concept: Systematic review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5347302/
0 Comments