Dental implants are alternative replacements affixed to your teeth roots. They provide a stronger foundation for removable or permanent replacement teeth that are designed to match your natural teeth. Before placing dental implants, a detailed assessment is carried out to ascertain your general jaw and teeth structure. This entails specialized x- rays, a study of your mouth model, and CT scans. Planning using computerized means ensures that the implants are placed in the best position in yourjawbone.
How it Works
Placing dental implants is a three-step procedure that involves two surgeries and a bridge fitting. The dental surgeon plans out the procedure, and technology has introduced special 3D imaging programs that can allow the surgeon to obtain a detailed view of your skull and jawline.
The first surgery is all about implanting metal rods into your jaw. Patients usually do experience some discomfort after this. Patients are advised to avoid spitting, sucking on straws,and smoking. Sometimes, the surgeon may offer an anti-bacterial mouth wash as an alternative to brushing for a week following the surgery. After a week or so, the doctor will take out the stitches and you have to wait six months for the next surgery.
In the next visit, the doctor will check if the implants have attached to the bone and make a tiny incision in the gum to remove the protective screws in the implant. After that, he or she will replace it with a metallic healing cap.
Two weeks later will be the time to visit the dentist for your bridge, crown, or dentures. There are risks of infections throughout this procedure and you are advised to maintain thorough oral hygiene. Pain medication and antibiotics are prescribed to ensure that you heal with the least discomfort as possible.
Who Needs It?
Most people acquire dental implants to replace teeth that have fallen out due to cavities, disease, or accidental injuries. Instead of using removal dentures, the permanent implants are fitted onto your jaw. People who have no health issues and a good bone structure are ideal candidates for this procedure.
Anyone fit to go through with a routine oral surgery can be considered for dental implants. Your must be committed to oral health care and regular visits to the dentist for maintenance. Heavy smokers and those suffering from chronic disorders, such as heart disease and diabetes, need to be evaluated to ascertain if they are fit for this procedure.
Advantages of dental implants
- Improved speech and appearance- dental implants look and feel like natural teeth.This is because they fuse to the bone and become permanent. Unlike with removal dentures that can slip, causing slurred speech, these implants allow you to speak without worries.
- Better eating and improved self-esteem-unlike with removable dentures, these permanentdental implants eliminate discomfort and facilitate chewing without discomfort. Dental implants allow you to smile with confidence.
- Improved oral hygiene and durability-with proper care, implants can last a lifetime and eliminate the inconveniences of removing dentures daily. Dental implants allow for easier access between your teeth when brushing and flossing.
Do you have a question about dental implants? Ask Dr. Anderson. He is one of the few Kennewick Dentists to be a member of the leading dental implant organization in the United States, the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
