Are you missing one or more teeth? Or you may have a slight tooth gap. Perhaps your dentures have become too uncomfortable to chew your favourite foods. Or you need a bridge. You will be happy to learn that dental implants are a popular solution.
Dental implants are replacement teeth that look and function just like normal teeth. A dental implant is a titanium post that replaces the root of your tooth. The implant is surgically inserted into your jaw and will integrates with the bone over time. A crown is placed to cap the tooth, and is matched to the colour of your other teeth.
No-one will ever notice the difference, as your dental implant will look very natural. But you’ll feel much more confidence in your smile. An implant can be used to support a single crown, dentures or dental bridges. It’s a very versatile treatment that has changed the lives of many people.
Most people are able to get dental implants, but in some cases it’s not possible. The strength of your jaw bone -- and the health of your gums -- are critical factors in determining whether you can get implants. Also, if you smoke or consume alcohol heavily you may not be able to get implants.
Why is it important to replace a missing tooth or teeth?When you have a missing tooth, the jawbone at that site can disintegrate -- which will change the shape of the face and jaw. This can make people look older, as the face will sag. Also, the remaining teeth will start to shift, becoming crooked -- which makes it’s more difficult to keep teeth and gums clean. Brushing and flossing aren’t as effective with crooked teeth, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
A dental implant stops all this and even stimulates jaw bone growth at the implant site. Your remaining teeth will stay in place, so you avoid any increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. You will need to keep regular appointments with the dentist for exams and cleanings, of course, to ensure your implant lasts a very long time -- even a lifetime.
How can implants help with dentures or bridges?
A set of implants can help keep dentures or a bridge secure in the jaw. A bridge requires just two implants - one on each side -- instead of anchoring to the neighboring natural teeth. This keeps the bridge secure in the mouth and the natural teeth don’t need any preparation -- so they stay strong.
A denture can be secured in a similar fashion -- with four or six implants that hold the denture secure in the jaw. It’s just that simple, and will keep dentures from slipping when you eat or talk. You’ll find the dentures are much more comfortable when they feel sturdier.
Teeth in A Day is the procedure we use to provide implants with dentures. You will have temporary teeth until your gums heal, then get permanent crowns. Our patients really appreciate leaving here with a complete smile -- getting everything done at one time.
What is involved in the dental implant procedure?
Initially, the dentist will assess your oral and jaw bone health using X-rays. Issues like gum disease must be treated before you can get implants.
For the implant procedure, we provide a local anaesthetic so you will be comfortable.
In some cases, our patients opt for IV sedation. This means that the patient feel no pain during or shortly after treatment. As this anaesthetic wears off, they may feel some discomfort. You may also feel pain between treatments. Please know that our dentists will advise you on how to manage this discomfort or tenderness to minimize the pain.
The procedure involves placing the implant into the tooth socket, and the gum tissue will be stitched to support it.
This area will need to heal for several weeks and months, so you will have a temporary crown on the implant for this period. When your dentist has determined your gums are healed and the implant fully integrated, you will receive the final crown on the implant.
Benefits of dental implants
For people with dentures or missing teeth, it’s wonderful to return to eating their favourite foods -- especially that chewy steak or a crunchy apple.
Although your teeth stay tucked away inside your mouth most of the time, they play a large role in your overall appearance. Removable dentures that aren’t slim enough can make the owner’s mouth look unnatural and distracting to others.
The implants look and function just like real teeth, so you’ll feel great about your smile. In your everyday life, you’ll feel confident --- whether you’re working, socializing, or just going about your normal routine.
Once you’ve got your dental implants, you won’t imagine life without them. You’ll probably forget you have them! Just remember to take good care of your teeth, and see your dentist regularly.
Dental implants are a long-term solution to missing teeth. They can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, so make sure personal oral hygiene is a high priority. See your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings to prevent plaque, tartar, infections, and decay.
If you have a missing tooth, or if you’re not happy with your dentures, talk to your dentist about dental implants. No-one every regrets improving their smile.
Source:
Your Dental Health Resource: 5 Everyday Benefits of Dental Implants