Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious when eating, talking or smiling, and create oral health problems for you as well. But today, a dental implant procedure can give you a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions as naturally as the original. Here's how to decide if a dental implant is right for you.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post (like a tooth root) that is surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line that allows your dentist to mount replacement teeth or a bridge into that area. An implant doesn't come loose like a denture can. Dental implants also benefit general oral health because they do not have to be anchored to other teeth, like bridges.
Are You a Good Candidate for an Implant?
If you are considering implants, you must have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. If your bone is too thin or soft and unable to support an implant, you may require a bone graft. Or if there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw or the sinuses are too close to the jaw, you may require a sinus lift. Keep in mind chronic illnesses like diabetes and leukemia can interfere with the healing process of an implant, and smoking can double the risk of losing one altogether.
Advantages of Implants -
Implants don't slip or shift, giving you the same stability and security as your natural teeth.
Implants are cleaned in the same way as your natural teeth, so there's no need to take them out at night for cleaning or soaking.
Implants don't rely on neighboring teeth for support; therefore, no tooth structure is lost, as is necessary when fabricating a bridge.
Implants prevent the shifting of nearby teeth, preserving jawbone and the contour of your face.
Implants are an ideal cosmetic solution to missing teeth, allowing you to chew and speak with ease.
Placing Your Implant -
Placing a dental implant in your jaw is an in-office procedure done with local anesthesia. Afterwards, you may experience some swelling and pain, but prescribed pain medication can always help with any discomfort. During the healing process, submit to a diet of soft, cold food and lukewarm soups.Your dentist will wait two to six months before placing the artificial tooth or crown on top of the implant. During this time, your bone and the implant fixture are growing together; this is called osseointegration. In the meantime, however, your general dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help with chewing and speaking.
Getting Your New Teeth -
During the period of osseointegration, your implant is covered by gum tissue later there is a need to uncover the implant and attach a healing collar before the dentist can begin making your new teeth. Next, impressions are taken and fixtures are connected to the implants, rendering a secure attachment for your new teeth.
Caring for Your Implant -
Most dental implants are successful, and there are a few steps you can take to help ensure success and make your implant last.
Practice good oral hygiene – brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes, brushes that slide between teeth, can help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant.
Quit smoking – smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure.
Visit your dentist – cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way.
Avoid chewing on hard foods – don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.