Are you missing a tooth? If you ignore the gap created by the missing tooth, then it can lead to issues ranging from dental health problems to aesthetic concerns. To replace your missing tooth you may go for dental restoration treatments like dental implants. Dental implants are artificial roots placed in your jaw over which a replacement tooth or crown is placed. Here are some of the things which you might want to know about dental implants before going for this procedure:
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants help replace damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth. If the gap is left untreated adjacent teeth may start filling the gap, leading to misalignment. Plus, if the jaw bone doesn’t get enough stimulation, it can melt away, causing aesthetical concerns.
A dental implant is a metal, screw like post that is placed in your jawbone. Once done, a crown is placed on top of it as a replacement for the missing tooth. The implant fuses into your jawbone and provides stable support for artificial teeth or crown. Dental implants become a base for supporting artificial teeth and also provide stimulation to the jawbone to prevent it from melting.
When do you need dental implants?
Losing one tooth may put you at a risk of further tooth loss. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth tilt towards the gap, causing misalignment and loosening of the adjacent teeth. Missing tooth can also lead a healthy jawbone tissue to deteriorate over time and make your face appear sunken. To prevent such severe dental and aesthetical issues, dental implants are useful.
How to prepare for dental implants?
Dental implants comprise one or more surgical procedures. A thorough evaluation is done before implementing the treatment. This includes a comprehensive dental exam through X-rays and models made of your teeth and mouth. An examination of the jaw bone and how many teeth need to be replaced is done. The treatment plan is accordingly tailored to your situation.
What measures should be taken after getting dental implants?
Proper oral hygiene
Avoid overeating hard and crunchy foods such as candy, cashew, and nuts as it can damage the crown or the replacement tooth. The surgical sites must be cleaned properly so that the dental implants heal quickly. Do not smoke for two weeks after dental implant surgery, as smoking increases the risk of the failure of dental implants. Make sure you brush and floss regularly. Antibiotic and saltwater rinses will also help maintain proper oral hygiene.
Regular dental checkups
Follow up appointments and treatment plans will decide how quickly the treated area heals. Apart from that, going for regular dental checkups can help you maintain good oral health and ensure proper functioning of your dental implants. It involves a thorough checkup and cleaning of your teeth and gums.
Dental implants are considered to be one of the best dental restoration methods for replacing missing tooth. There are many benefits of opting for dental implants including improved speech, improved comfort, and enhanced durability, to name a few. To know more about dental implants, you can contact us at Rideau Dental.
