Are you missing one or more teeth? Other than significantly impacting the appearance of your smile and your self-confidence, it can also be uncomfortable and make you susceptible to dental problems. People often avoid social events where they need to speak or laugh with others to hide the gaps in their smiles.
Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry now offers various solutions to these missing teeth. One excellent option is the addition of dental implants.
This article will run you through everything you need to know about dental implants, from getting one to caring for it.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are made of a metal peg that is screwed directly into the jawbone. Once this implant fuses entirely with the jawbone, a crown will be fitted and dyed to match your natural teeth.
These implants can be used to replace one or multiple teeth. Some people even get dental implants for every tooth. Dental implants can also support dentures so they can stay in your mouth without using adhesives that can irritate the gums.
Are You Qualified for a Dental Implant?
There are relatively few requirements to getting a successful dental implant treatment. Here are some criteria you need to meet:
- Bone Density in the Jaw: The implants are screwed into the jawbone, so you need adequate bone density to accommodate the implants. Insufficient bone density can cause the implant process to fail or not last for long.
- No Gum Disease: Periodontal or gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the first place. This problem needs to get addressed before continuing with the dental implant process.
- No Autoimmune Disorders: Autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes may complicate your ability to heal from this procedure.
You should also consider that a dental implant procedure can be a lengthy process that can take several months to finish.
What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants
If you are getting dental implants, you can expect the following procedures:
- The dentist will ask you to take x-rays to see if you have enough jawbone to hold the implant. If you don’t have enough bone density, you may need a bone graft to restore the required jaw density.
- You will be prescribed antibacterial mouthwash and antibiotics before the surgery to prevent infection.
- You will be sedated either through a local anesthetic or IV sedation so they can cut into your gums, drill the implant into your jawbone, and screw it in.
- The incisions made will be closed with stitches.
- You will be waiting for a few months to let the incisions heal and allow the implant to fuse to the jawbone.
- The dentist will take a mold of your mouth to create the crown. Once the crown is fitted, you are finished!
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants require care to avoid peri-implantitis, which affects the gums surrounding your implants. Here are some care tips:
- Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a low-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure to include your implants and the surrounding gums.
- Use interdental brushes with a nylon coating to get to hard-to-reach places.
- Floss daily with unwaxed tape or a floss recommended by your dentist.
- Use an oral irrigator daily.
Conclusion
You don’t have to be uncomfortable with a missing tooth or several missing teeth. Dental implants are a great option to restore your smile to normal. While it is a lengthy procedure, you get a significantly improved smile without the hassle of dentures and adhesives.
Are you looking for a dentist that offers cosmetic dentistry in Utah? We at Smart Dental Care can restore your smile through dental implants and other services. Head on to our website to learn more.