Dental Implants

1. Dental implants are small, threaded metal anchors designed to replace tooth roots and support replacement teeth. They are made of titanium, a strong and biocompatible material that integrates with jaw bone. Dental implants can help to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and bone loss in the area where the gap is. Unlike traditional dentures, which require removal Dental Implants and cleaning, implant-supported replacement teeth are permanent and will not slip or rub. A complete dental examination is needed to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implants. Patients must have sufficient healthy bone to hold the implants and be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Smokers, those with chronic diseases (such as heart disease or diabetes) and those who have received radiation therapy in the head/neck region may experience a slower healing process and integration of implants. During the initial consultation, your dental professional will explain the treatment process, including how long it will take and how many appointments are necessary. Options for local anesthesia and sedation dentistry will also be discussed. It is important that you provide a list of all medications and supplements before the procedure. Some can interfere with healing or cause complications. You should also tell your dentist if you've had a history with gum disease. This can make it harder to place and maintain dental implant. Surgical placement of the implant takes place under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during this time. Some swelling and bruising of the gums and face is normal after the surgery, but it should be minimal. You should avoid chewing on your implant for the first five to seven days following the surgery. If your dental professional used sutures, they will be removed during a follow-up appointment. Your dentist will also give you advice on how to care for your teeth and implant, including dietary recommendations, if necessary. After the surgery, it takes several months for the implant to fully heal and fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once this occurs, a metal spacer is placed on the implant that allows a crown to be fabricated and placed on the implant. The dental implant procedure is complex and varies depending on the patient. It is important to know what to expect to work with your oral surgeon and dentist to achieve your desired result. Dental implants can last for a lifetime with proper care.