A Guide to Getting Dental Implants

If you are thinking about getting a dental implant, you probably have numerous questions. You might be wondering what is involved in implant placement and whether or not it is the right option.

In this guide, you will find out more about dental implants to help you make an informed decision. It will give you valuable information on what dental implants are all the way to aftercare.

Dental implant treatment

Dental implants are titanium screws or cylinders that a dentist surgically places into the jawbone. Implants are often inserted where there are missing teeth below the gums. Once firmly in place, they allow the dental provider to mount artificial replacement teeth onto them. The new tooth, a crown, often looks and feels similar to real teeth.

How dental implants work

A dental implant is often strong because it fuses to the jawbone. This allows them to provide stable support for man-made teeth. Dentures, bridges as well as single teeth attached to them will not shift or slip in the mouth.

This is beneficial especially when speaking or eating. This secure fit also helps artificial teeth to feel more natural compared to typical dentures or bridges.

A good candidate for implant treatment

Dental implants might be recommended for people whom dentures or bridges are not comfortable or even getting them is not possible. This may be due to a variety of reasons, including sore spots, gagging, or poor ridges.

Moreover, some people do not like ordinary bridges because they need support from the adjacent teeth. However, in the case of implants, the adjacent teeth do not have to be ground down to hold the replacement teeth or tooth in place.

A suitable candidate for dental implants needs to have healthy gums, sufficient bone to support an implant, and great oral hygiene habits. For patients with insufficient bone, they should be able to undergo surgery to build up the jawbone.

Recovery and aftercare

Dental implant treatment recovery and success depend on several factors. Once a dental implant has been placed, it is crucial for a patient to maintain diligent oral hygiene habits.

This will help ensure proper integration with the bone structure. The chances of treatment failure are high if a patient does not floss and brush regularly. Infection can occur if the implant itself and the surrounding areas are not properly cleaned.

Smoking also contributes to high failure rates, which is why it is usually discouraged following implant procedures. Provisional restorations should also be cleaned just like natural teeth. This can promote healing and fusing. If a dental implant is properly taken care of, it can remain in place for a lifetime.

Bottom line

Missing teeth can make people feel self-conscious when smiling, talking, and eating. Failure to replace lost teeth can also lead to oral health problems. Dental implants can improve your oral health.

But after getting a dental implant, it is vital to take proper care of it and to visit your dentist regularly. These can ensure the long-term success and health of your implant. If you have any other questions about dental implants, talk to the dentist who performs holistic dentistry in Durango, CO today.