Dental implants are artificial tooth roots which are similar to screws in shape. They are metal frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum-line. After they are placed, dentists mount replacement teeth like crowns onto them. Abutments, connectors are placed on these implants to support the crowns. They are manufactured from titanium alloys or titanium for a firm support. They are also covered with different substances to increase their osseointegration and steadiness. These dental appliances are the oldest and strongest device to support replacement teeth. They allow the new teeth to fit perfectly making them function and look natural. If you’re looking to replace a tooth and your jawbone isn’t hard enough, then you have to consult a dentist first for information on dental implants. This procedure will not only improve your appearance but also provide you with comfort and good oral health. To find out everything about dental implants, keep reading this blog post by Dentistry on Dusk.

Types

There are two main types of dental implants and they are as follows:

• Endosteal

This type of dental implant looks like small screws which are made of titanium and are fixed directly into the jawbone. A second surgery is conducted to connect a post to the implant once the surrounding gum tissue has healed. In the end, an artificial tooth or teeth is attached to the post or grouped together on a denture or bridge.

• Subperiosteal

This type consists of a metal frame that is fixed onto the jawbone below the gum tissue. As the gum heals, the frame becomes firm to the jawbone. The posts that are attached to the frame protrude through the gums. Then, the artificial teeth are placed on the posts. NOTE- This type of implant is needed for the patients who do not have a natural and healthy jawbone.

Procedure

The dental implants surgery takes place in two steps:

• Examination

It starts with an examination of the general health of the patient. The dentist also studies the condition of mucous membranes, shape, position and size of the jawbone. The shape, size and position of the adjacent and opposite teeth are also studied. An X-ray or computed tomography (CT) is conducted to learn more about the positioning of the jaw and the density of the bone.

• Insertion of the Implant

The insertion of the implant begins with a small incision in the gum that reveals the status of the bone. A dental drill can be used to shape the site where the abutment screw will be positioned on the jawbone. Two types of surgery can follow depending on the condition of the patient. In the first type, the implant is fixed into the prepared site and covered with a healing cap. The latter protrudes through the gum which will be removed after three to six months. The permanent abutment can be attached then followed by artificial tooth or crown over it. The other type of surgery comes in two stages. A screw is initially placed over the top of the implant with the gum sewn over the screw. A second procedure is conducted to make an incision in the gum to attach the healing cap. After the healing, the caps can be removed and the abutment is attached. After that, a crown or artificial tooth can be fixed over the abutment.

Alternate Techniques Used

There are some alternative dental implant techniques and they are:

• Immediate Load Dental Implants

It is a fast process where the setting of the implant is conducted in a day. This is possible if the bone is natural and the implant fits properly to fix a new tooth.

• Mini Dental Implants

They are toothpick-sized implants placed through less-invasive techniques. And, they are done to alleviate a lower denture.

• All-on-4

In this technique, four dental implants are placed in the available bone so that it won’t require the need for bone grafting. A special type of abutment is used so that a temporary set of teeth can be fixed on the same day. After the healing process which takes up to six months, the temporary teeth are replaced with the permanent ones.

Advantages

Dental implants come with an array of benefits and they are:

• Provides comfort

It is a permanent dental solution and doesn’t require you to remove it for cleaning, unlike dentures.

• Improves speech

Dental implants are permanent and allow you to talk freely without worrying about it falling out. When dental implants are fixed, they can last a lifetime, unlike dentures.

• Boosts self-esteem

After the fitting of these dental appliances, crowns are fixed which gives you new teeth and restore your smile. This boosts your self-confidence.

• Improves oral health

When dental implants are fixed, they don’t impact other adjacent teeth. The individual implants allow easier access between teeth. This improves your oral health and ensures good oral hygiene.

• Convenient

Dental implants are convenient as they do not require any adhesive to stay in place. In fact, with these dental implants, you don’t need to remove dentures.

Tips to Care for Dental Implants

If you’re getting dental implants, then you should know how to keep them in a good condition. Here are a few tips.

• Brush twice a day

There are special toothbrushes available for patients who have dental implants which ensure a thorough cleaning process. A regular brushing of two-three minutes is mandatory to keep these dental appliances clean.

• Floss once a day

Flossing is essential to remove the food particles which get stuck in between teeth. Using a gentle floss is recommended to keep the dental implants in a good condition.

• Avoid eating sticky and hard food

Sticky foods such as candies and caramel can get stuck and alter the structure of the dental implants making them weaker. Hard foods are also harmful as they can lead to the implants breaking.

• Stop smoking

Smoking can delay the healing process and also weaken the bone structure. This will affect your oral health and should be stopped.

• Reduce your alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol regularly can affect these dental appliances as this habit can lead to tooth sensitivity. This leads to oral pain which isn’t healthy.

• Visit your dentist

If you visit your dentist once in six months, then he or she will be able to check the function of these dental appliances. Also, they can fix them if it is required without incurring further damage.

Some Interesting Facts

• Dental implants cannot get cavities, but, you should maintain good oral hygiene regardless
• They can preserve bone and stimulate its growth
• They are as strong as natural teeth
• Age isn’t a restriction to getting these dental appliances

In a nutshell, dental implants are the safest option if you’re losing teeth and need a replacement. They are natural, preserve jawbone and boosts your confidence by restoring your smile. If you’re looking to get dental implant surgery done, then visit our dental clinic in Brampton, and our experienced doctors will treat you. Book an appointment and enjoy an initial free consultation today!