Are Dental Implants Right for You?
by Lillian Dixon
When your smile makes you feel uncomfortable because of broken, missing, stained, or unhealthy teeth, you can get rid of all that constant embarrassment with dental implants. However, it is a complex process and you need to have all the facts about implant types and procedures before deciding if it is right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
In short, a dental implant serves as a root substitute for a lost tooth. As the new tooth root, a metal post is inserted into the jaw in a surgical procedure. Once in place, the dentist can then attach the replacement tooth to the implant. Typically, dental implants are placed in two stages.
Initially, the jawbone is exposed by a cut through the gum and the implant is drilled into position. A post, known as the abutment, is attached. This provides a connection between the implant and the tooth. Finally, the artificial tooth or crown is attached after the gums have healed and the implant settled securely in the jawbone,
Types of Dental Implants
There are two types of implants.
- Endosteal: This is the most common type of implant which is made of titanium. These have a screw-like shape and are surgically inserted into the jawbone. They fuse with the bone as they heal. They are suited for people with wide and dense jawbones.
- Subperiosteal: This implant is placed under the gum tissue but above the jawbone. This type is not as common, but it is excellent for people with insufficient bone mass to anchor an endosteal implant
The Preparation Process
A scan of the surrounding bones, nerves, and sinuses is taken. An x-ray will then determine if there is any underlying gum disease or decay. If a decayed tooth needs extraction, then there may be a delay of a few months before proceeding.
It is also possible for people with a damaged or weak jawbone to have a dental bone graft to give the jaw sufficient strength to hold an implant.
The Process
The surgery to insert the implant is done under local anesthetic and takes about four to six months to heal. The dentist may use a temporary crown to cover the gums and prevent the discomfort of a metal post poking out of the gums.
The final stage of fitting the replacement tooth can proceed when the swelling has subsided and the gums are healed. At this stage, the dentist takes a new dental impression and can shape the replacement to fit the existing structure. It is perfectly natural to experience a degree of mild discomfort and slight pain until it all settles.
For more information about dental implants, contact a dental office.
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About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.