DENTAL IMPLANTS: THE ULTIMATE BREAKDOWN

4th January 2019

DENTAL IMPLANTS: THE ULTIMATE BREAKDOWN

Are you curious about tooth replacement and dental implants? If you’re missing one or multiple teeth, this might be the treatment option you’ve been searching for. They’re the permanent solution that restore form, function, and health to your mouth, but how much do you know about them? Well, here we go. Embarking on the ultimate guide to dental implants in 3… 2… 1…

Who is suitable for dental implants?

Dental implants are the perfect solution for those missing a single tooth or multiple teeth. Whether through a sporting injury, accident, or the simple ageing process, missing a tooth can seriously impact your self-confidence and mouth function. There are a few options you could choose from depending on your needs. For single missing teeth, a single dental implant will be just fine. For those missing multiple teeth, an implant supported bridge or implant retained dentures might be better options.

What is a dental implant made of?

Your dental implant comes in two parts, so it’s made of two separate materials. The part we place first, the root, is made of titanium. This is because medical studies were conducted into the compatibility of titanium and bone, and they found that the metal actually invites your bone to heal around it and fuse it in place. This creates a solid and sturdy foundation for your tooth replacement. The crown, the part that fits onto the root that looks like a tooth, is commonly made of porcelain because of its natural tooth appearance, strength, and durability.

Are dental implants painful?

The placement process itself isn’t painful. They are generally placed under local anaesthetic to minimise your discomfort. Where you may feel discomfort is as the titanium root heals, however your implant dentist will of course provide you with aftercare advice, arrange follow-up appointments to check how you’re healing, and recommend the best at-home cleaning and pain relief where and when appropriate.

How do I look after my implant at home?

Dental implants are typically very low maintenance! There isn’t any special procedure or equipment you need at home once you are fully healed, all they need is the same attention your regular teeth receive. Brush them twice a day, floss once a day when healed, and use an anti-sceptic mouthwash to maintain your dental health. Because you’ve had a procedure, we’d recommend you visit your implant dentist every 6 months to make sure you’re still getting on with your implants and visiting your dental hygienist twice a year too will provide you with professional and reliable cleanings.

Are dental implants worth it?

Now, this is the million-dollar question! As dental professionals, we believe dental implants are worth it because we know the benefits to your dental health they provide. For example, closing a gap will prevent the rest of your teeth from shifting and moving into it, will prevent the development of gum disease in the over-exposed areas, and will aid mouth function like chewing and speaking. Also, dental implants have been shown to keep your jawbone healthy and strong after placement. This is because when you lose a tooth, you also lose the tooth root. This natural root formed a relationship with the part of your jaw bone it was attached to, telling it that it needed it to stay strong in order to support the tooth. When the tooth is gone and the root dies, the affected section of jawbone becomes soft and weak, eventually collapsing. A titanium root provides the jaw bone with a reason to stay strong, keeping your facial structure in check while also stopping your jaw from becoming spongey!
So, there you have it. You’re ultimate guide to dental implants courtesy of the dental professionals at Abbey House Dental! If you’re considering dental implants and tooth replacement in Stone, enquire online with us today or get in touch on 01785 818037 to begin your teeth transformation.