Dental Implants

This is probably the most obvious and common question to ask before you get dental implants. Dental implants are prosthetics that replace the missing tooth. It’s basically a small titanium fixture that the dentist places in your jawbone. The dentist can then attach a:

• Fixed bridge
• Capsule (single crown)
• Full denture
• Partial denture

Once the implant has integrated into the bone, the dentist attaches the artificial tooth or teeth to it using a structure called an abutment. The process involves three components: the implant, the abutment, and the artificial tooth.

Implants are surgically put in the jawbone by a dentist. Implants are your missing teeth’s roots. They are made of titanium and fuse with your jawbone. This means that they won’t cause bone damage, noise, or slippages like fixed dental bridges or dentures. The materials are also not susceptible to decay, unlike regular bridgework that supports natural teeth.

Advantages

Dental implants can replace a permanent tooth, or multiple teeth, that have been lost because of gum disease or dental decay. They are durable. These implants can enhance your smile, and confidence and allow you to eat what you want, as well as your ability to live an active lifestyle without worrying about your tooth health. Dental implants made from titanium are resistant to decay and will not cause any problems.

Drawbacks

The cost of treatment may increase if there is not enough bone available to place the implant. In this case, bone and gum transplantation procedures may be necessary and it is worth the initial investment.

You must be in good health and have good dental care. To support the dental implant, you must have sufficient bone structure in your jaw and healthy gum tissue.

You are a good candidate for dental implants if you:

• Have one or more of your teeth missing?
• You can have enough bone to secure the dental implant or you can get a bone transplant.
• Maintain healthy oral tissues
• You are unable to wear dentures

• Do not have any medical conditions that could affect bone healing

• Want to improve your speaking skills?

• You can commit to the process for a few months

• Do not smoke, or are you willing to quit smoking?

Soft Nylon Brush

You may need to change toothbrushes after receiving dental implants. Nylon toothbrushes have bristles that are flexible and gentle on dental implants. To reach areas around your implants, you can use a Proxabrush.

Avoid toothbrushes with hard bristles as they can scratch your implants. After your dental implants have been placed, it is best to avoid any metal instruments for cleaning your mouth. Keep brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing as often as you can.

Avoid using abrasive products

After you have your dental implants, it is important to continue to use sensitive cleaning products such as toothpaste and mouthwash because harsh products can cause severe discomfort.

Avoid intense flavors like cinnamon or mint in your oral hygiene products. They can cause discomfort and a stinging sensation in the mouth.

Floss Daily

Flossing is more important than ever with dental implants. Plaque can build up around implants and cause other problems. There are many flosses that are specifically made for dental implants. It doesn’t mean you should skip brushing your teeth.

Sticky/Hard Foods are to be avoided

Implant damage can be caused by eating hard/sticky food. These foods can also cause damage to the other teeth. You should avoid these foods after having implants: 

• Ice
• Caramel
• Dried fruits
• Hard candy
• Hardshell tacos
• Potato chips
• Carrots

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. The durability of dental implants is attributed to their integration with the jawbone, providing stability and support comparable to natural teeth. While the lifespan of dental implants can vary depending on individual factors such as oral hygiene practices and overall health, studies have shown that well-maintained dental implants have success rates exceeding 95% after 10 years, making them a reliable and durable option for tooth replacement.

Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth, both in appearance and function. The visible part of a dental implant, known as the crown, is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking smile. Made from durable materials such as porcelain or ceramic, the crown mimics the translucent quality of tooth enamel for a lifelike appearance. Additionally, the implant itself, typically made of titanium, is surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gum line, providing a stable foundation that feels and functions just like a natural tooth.

To relieve pain from a dental implant, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully. Initially, over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. Applying ice packs to the affected area for short intervals can also reduce swelling and numb the pain. Avoid hard or chewy foods and stick to a soft food diet to prevent further irritation. If the pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist immediately for further evaluation and potential adjustments to your treatment plan. Overall, proper care and patience during the healing process are key to alleviating pain and promoting successful dental implant recovery.