Dentistry has witnessed a lot of advancements in the past decades, and despite that, a lot of people still suffer tooth loss. The loss of a tooth or teeth can bring a feeling of self-consciousness and low confidence in a person while smiling and talking to people. Along with that, a loss of a tooth can also bring irregularities in biting which can highly affect the eating habits which usually leads to secondary problems like malnutrition. The most common reasons for a tooth loss these days are:

  • Severe tooth decay
  • Gum diseases like Periodontitis
  • Failure of root canal treatment
  • Trauma to tooth or teeth
  • Congenital defects
  • Wear and tear of teeth

Dentistry only had bridges and dentures as an option for replacing missing teeth in the early years. However, now we are provided with a choice of dental implants.  Replacing a missing tooth can provides a basic strength and stability which helps a person in consuming all kind of food without facing any struggle in chewing. A tooth replacement rejuvenates a smile and improves the facial features which help people regain their confidence. A lost tooth can cause bone loss, as the jaw bone is not stimulated or maintained.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in a space created by a missing tooth that supports a restoration and prevents the loss of jaw bone. They are metal frames or posts that are positioned surgically into your jaw bone beneath the gum line. After they are placed in the bone, the dentist can then mount an artificial crown over it. Unlike bridges, implants do not require being anchored to other teeth and hence can benefit in maintaining the oral hygiene.

Dental Implants Guide To A Confident And Revived Smile
Dental Implant

Implants are created with titanium and are fused to the bone by the process called osseointegration. There are two foremost types of dental implants:

  • Endosteal implant: It is the most common type of implant. Screws, blades, and cylinders of various are placed in the jaw bone. After the placement, once the gum is healed the post is connected to the implant with a second surgery.
  • Subperiosteal implant: Instead of placing in the jaw bone the posts are placed on the jawbone. The posts of the metal framework protrude through the gum to hold the prosthesis. These implants are used only in patients having low bone height and who find it difficult to wear dentures.

Oral care after placement of implants

A dental implant treatment is known to be successful. However, some steps could ensure the durability of the implant. They are:

  • Maintaining a good oral hygiene: Brushing twice a day along with flossing once a day can keep your implants clean. Interdental brushes are helpful in reaching areas around an implant that are difficult to reach using regular brushes.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking regularly affects the implant life by weakening the structure of the bone.
  • Regular visits to the dentist:  A visit every six months for cleaning and examination maintains the excellent condition of the implant.
  • Avoiding hard foods: The crowns over the implant can be broken down by chewing on the hard food like hard candy or ice.

Advantages of dental implants

  • Best aesthetics: They are fused to the jaw bone and hence are strong and stable. It appears as a natural tooth and is a permanent and long-term solution. They have a better appearance than bridges and dentures.
  • Comfort and ease of speaking: They are better than bridges and dentures as they do not interfere with your daily activities like speaking and eating. They do not slip while talking and allows you to enjoy your favorite meal without pain or problems.
  • Increase in confidence: An implant improves your facial features and restores the beauty of your simile. It increases the self-esteem, and a person can feel confident in talking and laughing again.
  • Protection of bone: When a tooth is removed from a socked it leaves a space that can go over the timing case the loss of bone along with difficulties in chewing. A dental implant not only protects the natural bone but also stimulates its growth further.

Important Article: Why Are Mini Dental Implants A Better Option?

According to Berlin Dentist, Dr. Roman Fedorciw, if you are considering dental implants as a choice for replacement of your missing tooth or teeth, you will need healthy gums and adequate amount of bone for the support of the implant. Consult your dentist and know your options today!

References:

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_implant
  2. http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/i/implants
  3. https://smiledrs.com/dental-implants/