What are dental implants?

When you have missing teeth, it is crucial to replace them. A dental implant is an artificial Titanium Screw that is placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants is a vital option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. A tooth implant is fixed into the jawbone where it merges with the bone. The material that is used in the dental implant is predominantly titanium which is accepted by the body and has almost zero rejection by the body.

Why is it so Important to prioritise replacing missing teeth in time?

When a tooth is extracted or is missing a lot of gradual changes happen at the area. Not many people are aware that the bone in that region constricts over time. Also, the other natural teeth close to the missing tooth tries to move into this space and sometimes even alter the way your jaws and teeth bones are naturally placed- causing gum disease, mouth infection and severe other dental discomfort. As a result in certain cases, with time that area becomes unsuitable for replacement with Dental Implants. Changes in jaw shape even causes your face to look older. So, it is advisable to see your dental consultant when you have a missing tooth.

About the procedure -: A dental implant goes into the bone, just like the root of a tooth, and prevents the bone from shrinking and other teeth from shifting. Getting a dental implanted tooth is a minor procedure, and most patients have slight discomfort after the procedure. After the implant is placed and the area has healed, abutment and crown is placed on the implant to finish the process.

“Crown” – A replacement tooth is fit on the top of the implant.

WHAT MAKES DENTAL IMPLANTS THE TREATMENT OF CHOICE?

Advantages of Dental Implants

• Tooth-saving: Your natural teeth are left untouched.
• Aesthetic: Dental implants can perk up a smile, without anyone knowing that you have a replacement tooth. They look, feel, and function just as strong, stable teeth does.
• Confidence: Dental implants will allow you to once again speak, eat with comfort and confidence!
• They are permanent and we do not have to remove them to keep them clean like you would in the case of regular dentures. Dental implants function as your natural teeth would.
• They are safe, reliable and a long- term solution. There is never a risk of an implant getting cavities or decay!
• Speech is easier because there are no dentures causing inconvenience while you talk.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Yes, If any of this conditions implies on you:

• Missing teeth in your mouth -Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
• Not enough teeth in your mouth to fix bridge - Even if you do not have a few teeth for support still its Implants consider techniques where each tooth can be easily replaced.
• You are not comfortable with your loose denture - Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
• If you have a busy schedule - Removable dentures are just that removable and time consuming. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for adhesives to keep them in place. Implants are permanent and saves your time from frequent task of fix and use.

Are Implants safe and how long will they last?

Dental implants can be considered effective for about 25 years before they may require any replacement. They are very robust and long lasting if you take good care of them. Owing to the latest advancements in diagnosis and computerized treatment planning, implant restorations have become highly predictable with extreme success rate!

I have some of my natural teeth. Can I still have implants?

Yes. You can have teeth replaced with implants since implants can be done for one single tooth to a complete set.

Can any dentist provide dental implants?

Dental implants are acute dental devices that demand urgent attention and done very carefully to minimize complications or implant failure. Though, it is important that you choose a dental implant expert who has competence and experience in implant dentistry.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Maintenance and care for dental implants have the potential to let the implanted tooth last for decades. Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: brush, floss and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

Are children treated with dental implants?

Yes, dental implants are considered an excellent and smart long-term solution for children who have lost permanent teeth due to injury or accident. It’s advisable to consult with a dental implant expert as soon as possible after the teeth are lost. However, in most circumstances, the dentist will wait to perform the procedure until the child’s facial growth and development has been completed. Generally, this occurs around age 16 for girls and age 18 for boys.

Is the procedure painful?

Patients generally should have minimal to no pain. Most patients are back at work the same day and are surprised by the ease of the procedure. If, however, you are having extensive bone grafting in preparation for dental implants, your surgeon may be using local anesthesia to numb the area . So, there might be some throbbing pain after the dental implant. This might be as a result of the healing process.

Can you get dental implants if you have gum disease?

This depends on the extent of the gum disease. If you have widespread bone loss due to gum disease it may not be possible to have dental implants immediately, but may you may need a bone augmentation to support the implants.

What do dental implants cost?

Condition and treatment varies for every patient . After an initial consultation, your dentist shall provide you with a treatment plan including the estimated amount of time to complete the process. Treatment time depends on your dental history, needs, medical and, jawbone condition, and the technique and materials used. It can be as short as a few months, or more than a 6months for more complex conditions.

How can I look after my dental implant?