It happens to the best of us. It’s another normal day and you’re enjoying your favorite sandwich when all of a sudden something doesn’t quite feel right. Could it be that you missed a generous dollop of mayo, or maybe, just maybe it is the fact that your teeth are falling out at rapid speed? We’ve all had those horrific, bone-chilling nightmares. And although these dreams are nothing but a by-product of your arbitrary subconscious, they may not be as simple in real life.
Losing teeth becomes a perpetual fear the older you get. Whether it is due to an unfortunate head-on collision or because you like taking frequent liberties with smoking, tooth loss can occur, often inevitably. This may be why more and more individuals are investing their lot in achieving fuller smiles with the help of dental implants.
If dental implants have gained your earnest attention, you have the right to wonder if a couple of ‘screw and bolts’ can keep your beautiful smile intact.
Let’s demystify this miracle dental procedure! Here is everything you need to know about dental implants.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
A dental implant often takes the form of a small, screw-shaped titanium post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone to replace the root part of your missing tooth. After a moment of healing, a false porcelain crown is also positioned onto the implant to replace the visible portion of your missing tooth.
Of all the tooth replacement alternatives, dental implants offer the most reliable and long-lasting option with unparalleled aesthetics. Not only do these implants help replace your missing tooth, but they also help preserve tooth-supporting bone that naturally tends to deteriorate when a tooth is lost.
HOW DO DENTAL IMPLANTS WORK?
To begin the dental implant procedure, your dentist drills a small hole where your missing tooth root’s once used to be present. Then, he/she places the implant into your jawbone. This is following by a period of healing where a crucial process called osseointegration takes place.
Osseointegration is a meticulous process by which a functional connection is made between your living bone and the implant. In other words, the implant fuses with your jawbone to maintain its structural integrity and stability.
After this period of bone ingrowth which can take anywhere from three to six months), your dentist will have you in for another appointment where you’ll receive your dental crown, bridge, or hybrid denture prosthesis.
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are brilliant choices for people who have lost their teeth to progressing periodontal disease, trauma, or gross decay. The only requirement to receive dental implants is a candidate with good general and oral health. Patients with good gum health (and no active underlying periodontal issues) and controlled diabetics make for great candidates for dental implants.
Factors like adequate bone support play a pivotal role in the success of the dental implant process. In cases where you do not have enough bone to support the dental implant, bone grafting may be suggested. Smoking and frequent drinking can pose a threat to the longevity of your implant.
HOW LONG DO DENTAL IMPLANTS LAST?
Implants are a safe dental treatment that has known to last years if you take good care of them. Dental implants that are well looked after can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even a lifetime! Talk about a great investment.
HOW CAN YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
The American Academy of Implant Dentistry describes dental implants as “the closest you can get to healthy, natural teeth.” While dental implants help prevent bone loss and help effectively curb tooth lessness, it is also important to properly take care of them.
Much like your natural teeth, dental implants require an attentive and dedicated oral hygiene regimen to help them last longer. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash must be the crux of your everyday oral hygiene routine. Visiting your dentist every 6 months for a checkup helps keep your smile bright and ever-lasting!
If you think there is no rhyme or reason to tooth loss, you may not be pleased to know that a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene choices can very well reverse it. Take care of your oral health with or without dental implants!
Interested in getting dental implants and upgrading your smile? Contact Premier Choice Dental Center today.
References:
1. American College of Prosthodontists, “Missing Teeth” –
https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/ACP_Talking_points_for_Missing_Teeth_1-12-15.pdf
2. American Dental Association, “Implants” –
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/i/implants
3. American Academy of Implant Dentistry, “What are dental implants?” –
https://www.aaid-implant.org/dental-implants/what-are-dental-implants/