Do you have missing teeth that make you look bad? Do you wear dentures that makes you uncomfortable and need a solution to these issues? Then you should talk to your dentist about the details of dental implants, whether it is the right option for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A Dental implant is considered as the best option for restoring your vibrant smile. These implants are a long-term solution and will effectively blend in with your other natural teeth. In the history of dentistry, it is considered as one of the best inventions humankind has made so far.
Previously, if you have ever lost your tooth/teeth, due to any reason, there was no way getting them back and you lose your smile and confidence forever. In the procedure of Dental Implants, a post is placed in the upper or lower jaw, which functions as an anchor for replacement teeth.
Step By Step Procedure
- In the first step, the dentist will make an incision over the crest bone splitting the gingiva in half. This is done so that the implant has a thick tissue around it and after that pilot holes are placed in their accurate position by drilling at the normal speed.
- In the second step, the dentist will carefully place the dental implant into your jawbone and you will take only soft foods, cold foods, and warm foods till it heals completely.
- The third step is known as osseointegration. In this process, the dental implant will combine with the bone and holds in its place. This process takes time as the patients have to wait for several months before the replacement teeth can be attached to it. Moreover, in order to help you eat and speak properly, the dentist will place a temporary crown, bridge or denture.
- In the last step, the artificial teeth will be placed but the dental implant depends on two things. If you need a single tooth implant then the dentist will place a dental crown. This dental crown will be based on the size, shape, and color of your adjacent teeth. But if you need a replacement for more than one tooth then the dentist will place bridges or dentures which will fit your mouth size.
Three Basic Types Of Implants
There are three types of dental implants which are as follows:
- Root Form Implants
This is the most common type of implant and is made of titanium. These are made in different shapes and surfaces textures but there is no evidence that shows that this type of implant has a long-term success and is not prone to peri-implantitis.
- Long Implant
This is also known as zygoma implant. This implant is attached to the cheekbone and is done to retain an upper denture when bone is absent. This is a unique approach to fix severe bone loss and is less invasive.
Small Implant
These implants are small in diameter and are used for denture retention.
- Risks And Complications
Before performing the dental implant procedure the dentist will ensure that the patient is not suffering from any potential disease that can slow down the healing process. If a patient is suffering from diabetes, leukemia or uses tobacco then he/she is not allowed to undergo dental implants process.
The success rate of dental implant procedure is higher than its failures. But if any failure occurs, mostly, it is due to infection, fracture, damaging of the surrounding nerves, blood vessels, and teeth, poor positioning or poor quality dental implant. But you need not worry about anything if a qualified and trained endodontist is performing this procedure.
These dental implants also need to be cleaned properly like the normal ones. Brush twice a day and floss daily if you do not want to face any dental issues for years to come.
After reading this article, if you are interested in dental implants and to have a good dental health, regardless of age discuss it with your dentist. Your dentist will discuss and share information with you regarding the treatment and the costs associated with it. They will also guide you step by step about the procedure and the total time of this treatment.
A Vero Beach Dentist, Dr. Alex Planes is considered a master in implantology. According to him, the dental implant is an excellent way to get your natural teeth and smile back.
References:
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/i/implants
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_implant#Risks_and_complications