Poor oral health is a problem affecting over 3 billion people worldwide. A poor diet high in sugar, smoking, and alcohol all contribute to poor oral health.
Even if your diet and everyday habits are good, it’s possible you’re suffering from tooth decay. People lose teeth due to accidents, illness, and prescription medications.
There’s no reason to suffer from missing teeth if you’ve lost one or more of your natural teeth. Teeth implants are a great solution.
Missing teeth and other oral diseases cause pain, anxiety, and embarrassment. Do you avoid smiling due to missing teeth? That’s a shame because smiling is good for your mental health.
Keep reading to learn more about dental implant surgery.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are as close to natural teeth as you can get. Unlike bridges, a dental implant doesn’t need anchoring by other teeth.
An implant stands on its own on a titanium post. The post acts as the root of the artificial tooth above. The surgeon positions the post down into the jawbone.
The tooth then sits above the gum line along with your natural teeth. Dental implants are a long-term solution.
Teeth Implant Procedure
Your initial visit includes x-rays, teeth impressions, and a thorough evaluation by the dentist.
The dentist evaluates your jawbone and takes a medical history. Evaluating your jawbone takes time and often more than one type of dental specialist.
Your regular dentist may send you to a periodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. The teeth implants go down into the jaw, so your jaw must be sturdy.
The Surgery
Now you’re ready for the dental implant surgery. The dental surgeon first removes the damaged or decayed tooth, unless it’s already gone. She then places the dental implant.
Placing the abutment is a minor outpatient procedure that comes next. The abutment is the post that holds the new tooth.
Most people choose a second procedure for the abutment rather than having a post sticking up inside their mouths during healing. The abutment can be placed at the same time as the implant if you prefer.
The Artificial Teeth
Everything’s healed and the abutment is in place. Now it’s time for your new teeth! There are two types:
- A removable implant prosthesis
- A fixed implant prosthesis
A removable implant is as it sounds. You can remove the tooth for easy cleaning and replacement if necessary. The fixed implant stays in place with cement or screws.
Removable implants are a good option for most people. They’re also more affordable.
Are You Ready for Teeth Implants?
Teeth implants are a good choice if your jaw is in good health. They’re a great solution for missing or decayed teeth.
Be patient because the process takes time. You’ll have an initial evaluation and medical history that often includes more than one dentist.
Next comes the dental implant placement. After the implant, you’ll go back in for the abutment.
Next comes the exciting part – your new tooth or teeth. Practice good oral health and eat a nutritious diet and your implants can last a lifetime.
Are you looking for more health and home information? Keep reading the blog.
