Dental implants are titanium posts, similar to your tooth roots, that your dentist surgically positions into your jawbone. This allows your dentist to mount the replacement crown or bridge into the gap created by the missing tooth. The implants are a restorative treatment for the missing teeth. Dentist widely uses this treatment to restore the beautiful smiles of their patients. It is also a revolutionary way to retain your organic looking smile.
How do dental implants work?
Your dentist infuses the titanium dental implants to your jawbone. This will act as a support to your artificial tooth. Additionally, having replacements such as crowns infused with these will secure stability. It will also ensure that the prosthesis will not shift or slip in your mouth, giving you a secure fit. In effect, your speech and bite will immensely improve.
Furthermore, another main advantage of implants is that there’s no need for adjacent teeth that need preparation. Other dental replacements such as bridges require trimming of the neighbouring teeth just to hold it in place. With dental implants, this step is not necessary as the prosthesis can stand alone after your Ontario dentist attaches it to your jawbone.
However, there are factors to consider before you qualify for an implant treatment. You need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the dental screw. You also must commit to keeping these structures healthy. Also, meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits will also be necessary to ensure long term success of the implants. Although dental implants are costly than alternatives such as dentures, however, you’re saving a lot more in the long run. This is because titanium dental implants prevent the need for more adjustment and fitting.
Types of dental implants
Endosteal implants
Your dentist surgically attaches this to your jawbone. Once the gums surrounding the implants have fully healed, a second surgery is necessary to connect the post to the original implant. The final step is to place an artificial tooth on top of the titanium or ceramic protrusion of the implant. This can either be a crown or a bridge. Moreover, it will depend on how many teeth you need replacing.
Subperiosteal implants
The dentist uses metal frames and fit the subperiosteal dental implants into your jawbone, just below your gum tissue. While the gum is healing, the frame becomes a part of your jawbone. The post that your dentist attaches to the frame will protrude through your gums. This is where he will mount the artificial tooth.
Aftercare tips for your dental implants
Caring for your implants is vital. Here are some tips that you should consider to ensure success, effectiveness, and longevity of your dental prosthesis:
Good oral habit
Brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash are ways to secure good oral health. This will keep stains, dirt and food particles away from the pristine condition of both your natural teeth and your implants.
Quit smoking
Smoking is one of the quickest ways to stain your teeth. The nicotine in tobacco has high pigment that is hard for regular toothpaste to remove. It can also weaken the bone structure and can contribute to the failure of your titanium dental implants treatment.
Regular dental check-up
Dental cleanings and exams are necessary every six months to secure your oral health. This is also crucial to ensure that the implants stay in good condition.
Avoid chewing on hard food
Chewing on candies and crispies can crack your natural teeth. Although implants are artificial, they are still prone to crack like your organic teeth. So be careful in chewing on hard food or simply avoid it. This will contribute to the longevity of your implants.
Losing a tooth is a crucial thing because it can affect your confidence and even your facial structure. Your facial contour also depends on the bone density coming from your natural teeth. If one is missing and is not replaced, then there may be changes in how you look. To know more about implants and their cost, visit your local dentist.
