How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Smile

dental implant

How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Smile

Whether you have missing teeth or are experiencing tooth loss, dental implants can improve your self-confidence and quality of life. Unlike dentures or bridges that require abutments to adjacent healthy teeth, implants replace only the lost or damaged teeth and their roots. The result is a permanent replacement that looks, feels and functions like your natural teeth.

In addition to the health of your mouth, gum tissues and underlying bones are important criteria for implant success. Our periodontists have three years of specialized training after dental school and are experts in both soft tissue (gums) and hard tissues (bone). They can evaluate your general oral health and develop a treatment plan that fosters a favorable prognosis for the placement of your implants.

Implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible metal that is very compatible with bone. The bone-to-implant bonding process is called osseointegration. The titanium surface is treated in a variety of ways to enhance the surface for the best possible integration and long-term stability. 대구임플란트치과

These treatments include a grit-blasted, acid-etched and roughened surface, a plasma-sprayed hydroxyapatite coating or zirconia (nonmetal) surface. The type of surface treatment and the amount of time for integration are critical factors in determining success for your implant.

A successful implant is dependent on the patient following post-operative instructions including good dental hygiene, regular professional cleanings and routine checkups, and cessation of tobacco use or drug use.

Failure to follow the dental team’s instructions can result in infection, which can damage or loosen the implant and may cause premature deterioration of your new tooth or dental crown. Implants are a safe, durable and highly effective way to restore your smile.

An incision in the gumline is made to expose the bone site for implant placement. A drill is then used to create and gradually enlarge the site (called an osteotomy). An implant screw is placed into the site. The implant head is shaped like a hexagon and has an internal hex connector that resembles the shape of a bolt. This connecter screws into a metal spacer, called an abutment. 상인램브란트치과

The abutment is then topped with a crown to complete the replacement tooth or teeth. Your dentist can fabricate either a temporary or a final restoration on the same day that the abutment and crown are placed.

Most patients will experience some pain and swelling after the surgery. Prescription medication is provided to control this discomfort. Patients should eat soft foods for five to seven days after the procedure and avoid using the impacted area. Stitches are typically removed by your dentist after a period of time.

You should also give your dentist a list of all medications and supplements you take, as some can interfere with healing. If you are taking a blood thinner, your dentist will determine in coordination with your primary care physician if you need to stop this medication prior to your implant procedure. This will ensure proper healing after the surgery.

About the author