Are you in search of a dependable, long-term solution to fill the gap left by lost teeth? If so, dental implants could be your best bet. Not only are they sturdy and secure, but they can also help restore your self-esteem as they offer back that exquisite smile. But what precisely are these tooth implants, and how do these wonderful devices operate? Let’s take an even closer look at it!
What are tooth implants?
Dental implants are crafted from titanium and placed in the jawbone; they can be custom-tinted to perfectly match your existing teeth. With some proper care, these reliable dental fixtures will last a lifetime!
What are the various types of tooth implants?
Endosteal implants – Endosteal implants are commonly used for dental prostheses, as long as the individual has an adequate amount of bone in their jaw. This method involves securely fixing specialised screws or cylinders into the jawbone to provide a reliable way of replacing multiple teeth at once. With this sturdy and secure support structure, endosteal implants are sure to offer lasting results.
Subperiosteal implants – Subperiosteal implants also offer a highly secure solution. Crafted to fit precisely over your bone and gum tissue, these custom-made metal posts are firmly connected to an abutment that supports dental prosthetics like crowns or bridges. With this type of attachment, you will be pleasantly surprised at how comfortable it feels!
What are dental implants made of?
Dental implants constructed from titanium and zirconium offer remarkable strength and the capacity for seamless fusion with the jaw bone. Titanium, in particular, is an excellent option as it is lightweight yet incredibly durable – a combination that won’t compromise the movement of your mouth after implantation. Those who have metal allergies or autoimmune disorders can opt for zirconium, ensuring no interference to body chemistry occurs post-insertion. Ultimately both materials are perfect selections due to their capability of combining sturdiness while still providing regularity, resulting in successful implant outcomes!
To ensure that your false teeth appear as genuine as possible, your dentist will take photos of them and observe colour guides for accuracy. Moreover, they are handcrafted from acrylic resin and porcelain to perfectly imitate the size, shape, and shade of your original set of pearly whites. With this meticulous process in place, you can feel confident about wearing a radiant smile no matter the occasion!
Tooth implant process
To guarantee that your dental implants are successful and last for a long time, three essential steps to the process must be given utmost consideration. Let us delve deeper into each one of these processes!
Consultation and planning
As you schedule an appointment with your dentist, they will thoughtfully examine both your mouth and teeth to assess if dental implants could benefit you. Moreover, they’ll question any past medical issues as well as the desired impacts after implant surgery. Your dentist’s comprehensive consultation includes a close inspection of not only your gums but also X-rays and 3D scans to pinpoint the optimal spot for surgical insertion.
Implant insertion
When you get dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to ensure that the entire procedure is pain-free. The process typically takes no more than a few hours and involves inserting titanium implants into the jawbone beneath your gum line for integration efficiency.
As soon as these posts attach securely to the jawbone and osseointegration completes, then they are all set for an abutment and crown to be placed on top of them.
Bone grafting
Should your jawbone be deemed unsteady for an implant, your dentist might recommend a bone graft instead.
Attaching the replacement tooth
As soon as the preliminary steps are done, your dentist will professionally attach a visually appealing artificial tooth to its specifically designed base in their office. This whole process is generally conducted with local anesthesia for added comfort and relaxation.
Could I be a good fit for a dental implant procedure?
If you’re looking for a way to enhance your smile with implant technology, there are certain key elements to evaluate.
1. Avoid smoking
Smoking can be detrimental to your health and additionally hurts dental implant placements. If you are striving for the most successful healing process after implant placement, then having a conversation with your dentist about quitting strategies would be beneficial. Although it may seem like quite a struggle initially, the long-term advantages will make all of your hard work worthwhile.
2. You should have good bone density in your jaw
For a successful implant, a strong jawbone is key. If the underlying bone does not provide enough support, your entire procedure could be for nought. To guarantee that your implant stays firmly in place and delivers long-lasting results, it’s essential to evaluate and accurately account for the density of your jawbone.
If the underlying jawbone of your missing tooth is too weak
for an implant, then bone grafting is the ideal answer. This process entails adding natural or artificial bones into the space that is used to house your tooth, making it solid and steady enough for a dental implant! Afterwards, you won’t have any issues when undergoing implantation treatments.
3. You should be in good dental health
If you want successful dental implants, oral hygiene is key. Any decay or gum disease must be eliminated before implant placement for it to be both safe and effective. Your dentist will also assess other health conditions that may affect treatment prospects – but if tooth corrosion or periodontal issues have left you apprehensive about getting implants, these can usually be remedied in advance of the procedure.
How to care for your teeth after the dental implant treatment?
Use sensitive cleaning products
To make sure your dental implants remain healthy and clean, it is advised to use gentle products. Harsh components can cause extreme discomforts, which must be avoided at all costs. Moreover, avoid oral care items with excessively strong flavours, such as cinnamon or mint, since they are likely to leave a distasteful feeling in your mouth.
Floss regularly
To prevent oral health concerns, like plaque buildup around your implant sites, you must floss regularly. Fortunately for us who own dental implants, there are plenty of specialised flosses available on the market to make hygiene maintenance as easy as possible!
Don’t eat sticky and hard foods
Secure your beautiful smile for years to come by avoiding sticky and hard foods such as dried fruits, potato chips, caramels, candies and crusty bread. This will help protect both your dental implants and the teeth opposite them from damage! Taking these small steps now is a surefire way of preserving that perfect grin you have worked so hard to achieve.
Use a soft-bristled nylon brush
To keep your implant in tip-top shape, use a toothbrush with soft nylon bristles and abstain from using metal objects. Twice-a-day brushing is all that’s needed to protect it from damage that firmer bristles may cause.
Schedule regular dental visits
Dental implants can be the answer to your dream smile, but they won’t replace regular dental visits! Even if you think your teeth and gums are in great shape or need some extra TLC – make sure to see a dentist for cleanings and exams at least twice yearly. With proper care and maintenance, these dental devices are made with quality materials that could last you an entire lifetime!
Why should you get dental implants?
1. Dental implants restore normality
With a missing tooth, talking and eating can be an uphill battle. As your misaligned teeth don’t allow for proper pronunciation or chewing, dental implants provide the perfect answer to restoring your oral health; they function like real teeth! Within no time at all, you’ll be able to indulge in delicious meals and carry on conversations with ease once more.
2. Dental implants offer a reliable way to keep your other teeth in their desired position
When you have a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth can start to shift and compromise both your smile and chewing ability.
To prevent this from happening, dental implants not only improve your appearance but also protect other nearby teeth from moving too much. This will make it easier for them to be replaced with implants at some point in the future if needed.
3. Dental implants provide a beautiful, natural look that replicates your own teeth
Dental implants are designed with precision to look and feel just like your existing teeth, making it impossible for anyone to tell that you’ve had any dental work done! With the perfect fit between hue and structure, they blend seamlessly into your smile.
4. Maintaining dental implants is easy
It’s easy to keep those dental implants looking beautiful and healthy! All you need is the same care that your natural teeth get- brushing and flossing. You don’t even have to buy any special products, whatever works for your real teeth will do perfectly for the implants too!
5. Dental implants are impervious to cavities
Unlike natural teeth that may be vulnerable to damage due to trapped food particles and enamel erosion, dental implants are crafted from artificial substances such as metal, resin, porcelain or plastic. Because of their non-organic construction, oral bacteria cannot feed on them, making tooth decay a thing of the past. With this man-made solution, you must know your implant is immune to corrosion caused by inadequate blood flow.
6. Dental implants are made to last for many years
Opting for tooth implants is the best decision you can make regarding your oral health, as they can last an eternity with regular care and maintenance.
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants in Australia can be costly, beginning at a minimum of $3,000. Depending on the complexity and specific prerequisites associated with your treatment, this amount could even reach up to around $6,000 if other procedures, such as sinus lifts or bone grafting, are required during the course of your operation. Ultimately, costs will vary for each individual case.
After your dental surgery, you can still enjoy eating and drinking as long as you stick to liquids for the time being. As your gums and mouth are likely quite sensitive at this point, it’s important that you avoid any solid foods which may cause irritation in the area. Hydration is essential during this period; however, using a straw will help reduce discomfort near all incision sites that were made.
For a successful and swift recuperation, it is essential that you have your postoperative liquid meals ready before the surgery or ask someone else to prepare them for you while taking time off. For optimal results, limit yourself only to liquids within 24-48 hours after your procedure has been completed.
What should you eat after dental implant surgery?
First 24-48 hours – After your dental surgery, nourish yourself by sticking to liquids. Your gums and mouth are most likely quite tender right now, so abstain from any solid foods that may cause irritation in the area. Maintain a good amount of water intake to avoid dehydration.
For a successful recovery, it is essential that you have pre-prepared liquid meals on hand prior to your operation or request someone else to make them for you while resting.
1-2 weeks – During the upcoming weeks, it’s important to refrain from chewing and prioritise easier-to-chew foods. To help you on your journey back to well-being, try these healthy options: creamy cottage cheese, cooked vegetables paired with pureed meats, mashed sweet potatoes or oatmeal, as well as smoothies and meal replacement shakes. All of these will offer essential vitamins that’ll accelerate healing.
Get quality dental implants at Digital Dental Surgery Clinic
Feeling self-conscious about your missing teeth? Let our expert Digital Dental Surgery Sydney dentists put a smile on your face. Our experienced staff provides top-quality implants at an affordable price so that you can bid farewell to any worries related to your appearance. After investing in our implant services, the perfect set of new teeth will be crafted for you – allowing you to show off your beautiful smile with confidence again. Book your consultation or call us now.
Sydney CBD: (02) 8294 5812
Gosford: (02) 8294 8656
Eastwood: (02) 9299 8842
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
A step-by-step guide to dental implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide-expectations-dental-implants#:~:text=Having%20Dental%20Implant%20Surgery,-Once%20you’ve&text=Your%20oral%20surgeon%20will%20place,won’t%20feel%20much%20pain.
Dental Implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622