Dental implants are supported dental prostheses that interface with bone in the jaw and skull. They also act as an orthodontic anchor. Implants are made of titanium, are designed to be permanent and stable, and can last a lifetime. This type of prosthesis is more expensive than traditional dentures but is well worth it for a person who is missing one or more teeth. Read on to learn more about this exciting treatment. You’ll be glad you chose it!
Dental implant surgery involves placing a small titanium post into the bone socket of a missing tooth. Over a few months, the jawbone grows around the metal post, and the implant is placed. A follow-up visit will ensure the implant fits properly, looks natural, and functions properly. The rest of the process involves at-home care and regular dental visits. The benefits of dental implants are numerous and can help you regain your confidence!
Depending on the type of implant, patients may be referred to a dentist specializing in the procedure. In some cases, their general dentist may carry out some or all of the procedure. When choosing a dentist, however, it’s important to ask about their experience and if they have any recommendations for a dental implant specialist. After all, the dentist will be spending a significant amount of time and money on your implant, so making sure it’s right for you is essential.
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several adjacent teeth, or all of the missing teeth in a jaw. They can also support a fixed or removable denture. The number of implants needed will depend on the size of the jaw and the amount of bone available for placement. Today’s implants are mostly made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that provides strength, durability, and osseointegration. Zirconium has been investigated as a possible alternative for future implants, but is not yet ready for general use.
Once the implant is in place, the patient must practice good oral hygiene and follow post-op instructions. The dentist may prescribe an antibiotic for the first week following the surgery. Patients may also need to limit their diet to soft foods for the first week, and they may have to take pain medications for a few days.
Following the placement of the implant, patients will need several follow-up appointments. The first appointment is usually one to two weeks after the procedure. The dentist will remove any sutures and check for signs of infection. Then, after six weeks, patients will return to the dentist for a three-month maintenance appointment. During this time, the dentist will use radiography to make sure the implant is securely in place.
Dental implants are an excellent option for restoring your smile. They go directly into the jawbone, which can take anywhere from six to nine months. They are permanent, and they have none of the disadvantages of dentures or bridges. A permanent dental implant is the best option for people who have lost teeth due to an accident, and it is a better option than dentures and bridges.
Dental implants replace a single tooth or entire set of teeth, and can even be used to replace the entire upper and lower jaws. They’re also easy to clean and can last a lifetime if properly maintained. Aside from improving your oral health, dental implants can also improve your confidence! A dentist who’s experienced in using implants can explain all of the details of the procedure to you. Your dental implant should fit perfectly into your mouth and be secure.
Because dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, your jawbone needs to be sufficiently strong to support them. A periodontist can perform a bone graft if it is not thick enough. The bone graft will be made of synthetic bone and used as a root for the artificial tooth. The process can take months, depending on how healthy your jawbone is.