Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, typically titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth or dental prostheses.
Dental implants work by integrating with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong and stable base for attaching an artificial tooth or prosthesis, effectively restoring the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
Generally, anyone with good overall health and adequate bone density in the jaw can be a candidate for dental implants. However, certain conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or active periodontal disease may affect the success of the implant procedure. A comprehensive evaluation by a dental professional is necessary to determine if dental implants are suitable for an individual.
The placement of dental implants is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that patients do not experience pain during the procedure. After the surgery, some discomfort, swelling, and mild pain may be present, but they are usually manageable with pain medications and subside within a few days.
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for tooth replacement. With proper care and maintenance, including good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last for many years, often decades, or even a lifetime.
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental cleanings, are important to maintain the health of the surrounding gums and prevent complications. Our dentist may provide additional instructions specific to your situation.
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. They provide a more natural and stable feel, allowing for improved chewing ability and speech. Unlike removable dentures or bridges, dental implants are fixed in place and do not require adhesive or support from adjacent teeth. Furthermore, implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure.
Yes, dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth. In such cases, a dental implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, and a custom-made dental crown is attached to the implant, effectively replacing the missing tooth while preserving the integrity of adjacent teeth.
Yes, the brand of implants used in treatment can matter. Different implant brands may have variations in design, materials, and manufacturing processes, which can affect the long-term success and durability of the implant. It is important to choose a reputable and well-established implant brand that has a proven track record of quality and success. Our dentist can guide you in selecting the appropriate implant brand based on your specific needs and the desired outcome of your treatment.
Dental implants are generally not recommended for:
• Those with advanced periodontal disease or symptoms of periodontal disease.
• Patients who are taking steroids, undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, have diabetes, uncontrolled bleeding, osteoporosis, or a weakened immune system.
• People with severe cavities should undergo orthodontic treatment beforehand.
Bone grafting is the insertion of synthetic bone material into areas lacking natural bone. Bone grafting can take several months for the graft to form new strong bone, so it will take longer before starting the actual dental implant procedure. If you only want a small bone graft, in some cases, surgery can be performed at the same time as implant placement. Dental panoramic x-rays and CT scans help determine the amount of bone available to determine if bone grafting is required for implant placement.
• Choose liquid and pureed foods for the first few days after the procedure.
• Switch to solid foods in the next few weeks. It is recommended that you do not skip meals.
• Avoid very hot foods, as it may take several days for your tongue to return.
• Oral hygiene should be maintained after the procedure. This includes brushing and rinsing at least two times a day.
