Missing teeth can happen due to several reasons, such as dental caries, trauma, gum disease and even genetic factors. You can retain your teeth at every age by maintaining oral health and practising preventive care through regular dental checkups and cleanings. But there may be instances where you may lose one or more of your natural teeth and need prosthetic teeth to fill the gaps and improve teeth function and appearance. This is where dental implants come in. Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are inserted into your jawbone, providing a fixed and durable solution. Interested? Read on to learn everything you need to know about dental implants, from their procedure and benefits to eligibility and maintenance.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium screws inserted into your jawbone to anchor new prosthetic teeth. They are artificial tooth roots which integrate with your bone, providing a sturdy base for new replacement teeth. Unlike conventional dentures or dental bridges that rest on the gums or adjacent teeth, dental implants are fixed and offer more natural-looking results for improved aesthetics and function.
Dental Implant Process
The dental implant procedure can take several months and is completed in several steps:
Initial Consultation
Dental implants can be used for single or multiple tooth replacement. It can even be used in conjunction with other procedures, such as dental bridges or dentures, for improved stability. The process begins with an initial consultation and examination to determine your eligibility for dental implants. This involves a dental exam, x-rays, and evaluation of your dental health. In patients with inadequate bone volume, a bone graft may be needed before the procedure. Dental implants require sufficient bone to anchor securely in the jaw, ensuring long-term success and stability of the implant restoration. Additionally, patients with gum disease and certain medical conditions may not be able to get dental implants. A consultation allows your dentist to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants while explaining the process, commitment and care involved during and after the procedure.
Treatment Planning
Based on the evaluation, your dentist will create a customised treatment plan. The plan includes the number of implants needed, their precise placement, and the type of restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) that will be attached to the implants.
Implant Placement
Your dentist will administer anaesthesia to numb the implant site to ensure your comfort during the procedure. A small incision will be made in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone tissue. The opening will be adjusted using specialised instruments to fit the titanium screws or dental implant. The opening will be closed, and the wound will be given time to heal and the bone to integrate with the implant. This can take several months, depending on your healing capacity.
Abutment Placement
When the bone has fused with the implant, an abutment (connector) is attached to the implant, providing the base for your new prosthetic teeth.
Final Restoration
After the gums heal around the abutment, the final step involves the placement of the custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture on top of the abutment. The restoration is customised to match and blend flawlessly with your natural teeth.
Some swelling and bruising are normal after the surgery. Your dentist can help you manage this with pain medication and aftercare instructions, such as ice packs and eating soft food after the procedure. These symptoms generally subside in a few days. Follow-up appointments, regular dental checkups and cleaning and good oral hygiene are essential to maintain your dental implant. Other than that, dental implants do not require special care as they do not have to be removed to be cleaned and look and feel just like your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The dental implant procedure is considered one of the most successful and long-lasting tooth replacement options available in modern dentistry. Some of the main benefits of dental implants include:
Restores Appearance
Dental implants look and feel natural, restoring your smile’s appearance with a durable restoration that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Improves Chewing and Speaking Ability
Missing teeth can affect speech and cause chewing difficulties. Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak easily without worrying about slippage, discomfort, or slurring words.
Prevents Bone Loss
After tooth loss, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preserving bone density and preventing bone loss to maintain your facial structure.
Lasting and Durable
Dental implants are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, saving you from the hassle and expense of frequent replacements.
No Impact on Adjacent Teeth
Unlike dental bridges, which rely on neighbouring teeth for support, dental implants do not require altering or compromising adjacent healthy teeth. This preserves the integrity of surrounding teeth.
Easy Maintenance
Dental implants are easy and convenient to maintain. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are all that are needed to maintain their longevity and health.
Regain your Smile with Dental Implants
Dental implants offer the advantages of improved aesthetics and functionality in one procedure. They allow you to regain your smile, enjoy your favourite foods and improve your quality of life. At Boon Dental, we’re dedicated to offering quality dental care with bespoke treatment plans. Our caring dentists are here to support you with honest guidance and advice to help you improve and maintain your oral health for a beautiful smile at every age. Whether you’re considering dental implants for missing teeth, restorative options like dental crowns for damaged teeth, or orthodontic treatment for a straighter smile, we’ve got you covered. Book a consultation at our Wentworth Point or Ropes Crossing Clinic today.