Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium or other materials that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They serve as a stable foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth, which are designed to match natural teeth. Dental implants can improve the overall aesthetic appearance, speech, comfort, and chewing ability, and they also help maintain jawbone structure and prevent bone loss.
Improved Appearance
They look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your smile.
Enhanced Comfort
Unlike dentures, implants become a permanent part of your mouth, eliminating the discomfort of removable dental appliances.
Easier Eating
Implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
Better Oral Health
Implants do not require altering nearby teeth, therefore more of your own teeth are left intact.
Durability
Implants are very durable and can last many years or even a lifetime with proper care.
Improved Speech
Poorly fitting dentures can slip within the mouth, causing you to mumble or slur your words. Implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.
Convenience
Implants eliminate the need for the messy adhesives used to keep dentures in place.
Aftercare is crucial to ensuring the success and longevity of dental implants. Here are some key steps for dental implant aftercare:
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
Take prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.
Eat soft foods and avoid very hot or spicy foods.
Avoid Harmful Habits
Avoid smoking as it can interfere with the healing process and affect the longevity of the implant.
Avoid chewing hard items like ice, hard candy, and pens that can damage the implant or surrounding teeth.
Oral Hygiene
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Use a non-alcohol, antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup.
Floss daily around the implant to remove food particles and plaque.
Monitor Your Implant
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Pay attention to any unusual sensations, pain, or signs of infection around the implant.
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Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any issues.
Regular Dental Visits
Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the implant and surrounding tissues are in good health.
Professional cleanings will help maintain your oral health.
There are several types of dental implants, each suited to different situations and patient needs. Here are the primary types:
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps over a period of a few months. Here’s an overview of the process:
01
Initial Consultation
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Comprehensive dental exam and X-rays or 3D imaging.
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Discussion of medical history and treatment options.
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Creation of a customised treatment plan.
02
Initial Consultation
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Comprehensive dental exam and X-rays or 3D imaging.
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Discussion of medical history and treatment options.
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Creation of a customised treatment plan.
03
Tooth Extraction (if necessary)
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Removal of the damaged tooth (if it hasn’t already been removed).
04
Bone Grafting (if necessary)
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If the jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, a bone graft may be needed.
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This can involve using natural bone from another location in the body or a synthetic bone graft.
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Healing time can vary from a few months before the implant can be placed.
05
Implant Placement
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The dental implant (a titanium post) is surgically placed into the jawbone.
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The gum is then stitched over the implant, and a period of healing follows to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration).
06
Abutment Placement
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Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgery is performed to attach an abutment (a connector post) to the implant.
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The gum is allowed to heal around the abutment.
07
Crown Placement
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After the gums have healed, an impression of your mouth is taken.
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A custom-made dental crown is created to match your natural teeth.
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The crown is then attached to the abutment.
08
Aftercare and Follow-up
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Regular dental visits to monitor the implant.
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Adherence to good oral hygiene practices to ensure the longevity of the implant.