DENTAL IMPLANTS – A BRIEF GUIDE
Dental implant surgery allows patients to have their defective or missing teeth replaced with artificial teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural ones.
Dental implants are designed to replace your teeth’s natural roots. Essentially, they are titanium posts that resemble small screws. After they are attached to your jaw, they begin to naturally fuse with your bone structure. This allows the implants to remain steady and not cause any damage to your jaw bone.
On some occasions, if your bone structure is not strong enough to hold the implants, bone grafts are employed to repair any damage. This process ensures that the implants will remain in place and aid the function of your artificial teeth when you eat, speak, and breathe. And while dental implants, like any other medical procedure, do have some risks — these are rare.
Read on to learn all the details concerning dental implants and the required process for this treatment.
THE PROCEDURE
Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can undergo it without hospitalization. It’s carried out in stages, requiring time in between for appropriate healing. The first step is to remove, if necessary, any damaged or defective teeth. This is followed by conditioning the jaw bone for the implant. As stated above, if the bone structure is not healthy enough, grafts will be necessary.
Next comes the implant. After allowing time for the bone and the implant to fuse together, an abutment is placed on the implant. This is an essential piece that will connect the artificial tooth (or crown) to the implant.
While the entirety of the process can take several months, it is necessary to allow time for the body to heal before taking each successive step. This is indispensable in order for the implants to be successful and function as intended.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER DENTAL IMPLANTS?
After the entire procedure is completed, it’s normal to experience some discomfort or swelling typically associated with all dental treatments. A slight adjustment in diet may be required, so there is less strain put on your new implants.
Each case is different, however. That’s why It’s important to follow the instructions of your dental care professional and take any necessary medications such as painkillers and antibiotics. With proper care, you will eventually carry on as you would with natural teeth.
DENTAL IMPLANT AFTERCARE
Practicing proper dental hygiene is crucial, especially after dental implants. Brush your new teeth and use mouthwash no less than two times a day. Just as it’s essential to care for your natural teeth, caring for your artificial teeth is no less important.
Remember to visit your dentist regularly to maintain your oral health. With biannual visits, any potential complications may be spotted early and treated. Only by working together with your dentist will you achieve healthy and strong teeth that will last you a lifetime.