Dental implants are replacements for the roots of missing teeth. They serve as an anchor for crowns or replacement teeth. The root of the tooth is embedded in the bone to keep the tooth from moving. The success rate is 95% in most cases.
Benefits of Dental Implants for Patients
Replacing missing teeth keeps everything functioning properly. Dental implants look natural giving you a beautiful smile. In fact, dental implants do not damage adjacent teeth in the mouth. It is easy to eat all kind of foods and dental implants are comfortable.
It is easy to clean your teeth because they remain like natural teeth. Using a toothbrush, dental floss, electric toothbrush, and mouthwash is sufficient. With natural looking teeth you have the confidence to dine with family and friends. Dental implants stay in your mouth and never have to be removed.
How Do Dental Implants Work
A dental implant is made of natural material called titanium. It is placed in the jawbone surgically and fuses with the natural bone. An implant is used for one tooth or several. It has a cylindrical part that resembles a screw that goes into the tooth root. The connector goes on top of this to connect it to the replacement crown or tooth.
After the operation, the dental implant will fuse with the natural bone in the jaw. It will make a sturdy foundation for your teeth. The healing process often takes 6-12 weeks. After that the connector is attached by the dentist, and he makes a cast of your teeth. The next step is to attach the crown or tooth.
There are two types of dental implants. One is called endosteal implants that look like metal screws. They are the most common type of implants. Subperiosteal implants are used for patients with shallow jawbones. Dental implants come in many different shapes and sizes.
The primary disadvantage of dental implants is the cost. Often, insurances do not cover the entire procedure. Many insurances cover part of the procedure. It is important to have an experienced surgeon perform the procedure properly.
Procedures for dental implants take longer due to bone grafting and healing around the implant. Occasionally, infections occur around the implant and gums.
Caring for Dental Implants
One of the best ways to care for dental implants is not to smoke. It is important to clean them every day and visit the dentist for regular checkups. After surgery, you will need to use an antibacterial mouthwash for the first few days. After that you can brush with a soft toothbrush.
Patients can floss during any part of the implant procedure. This reduces bacteria keeping gums healthy. Brushing with an antibacterial toothpaste is another way to keep infections down and gums healthy.
Eat foods that are soft and easy to chew after surgery. Some suggestions are cooked pasta, soup, jello, yogurt, cooked fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget to clean your teeth twice daily. Don’t eat foods that are too hot or cold.
Some side effects of dental implants are bleeding and swelling. This often occurs for 24 hours or more after surgery. Swelling often occurs and an ice bag on your jaw or cheeks relieves pain.
Often the doctor will prescribe over the counter pain medications. They will have to be taken ever 3 to 4 hours. Antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor to reduce infection. Keep exercise down to a minimum while recovering after surgery and get plenty of rest after the operation.
Think about dental implants for yourself or someone you know to replace missing teeth. Learn more about this procedure by inquiring today.