Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Tooth Implants
A dental implant is a titanium screw that a dentist fixes onto a patient's jawbone to support a prosthetic tooth. Dentists consider getting implants as one of the best ways to replace missing teeth because they are permanent. However, the procedure comes with a few steps to follow for the best outcome. Your results will also rely on your ability to follow laid-out care tips and any other follow-up treatment. Here's what you need to know about getting tooth implants and caring for them during recovery.
The Anatomy of an Implant
A tooth implant has three parts: the root, abutment, and crown. The root is the titanium screw that the dentist attaches to your jawbone. The abutment is attached to the titanium bit to help support the crown. Finally, the dentist molds a crown that resembles a regular tooth and covers the area with a missing tooth. The unit acts similar to a natural tooth, and the implant infuses into the bone and starts working the same way a natural tooth does after a few months.
Taking Care of the Implant
It is rare for your jaw to reject a dental implant. However, this can happen when you fail to properly care for the implanted tooth after the procedure. The dentist will give you guidelines and instructions to follow to aid implantation success. First, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. You should also refrain from eating hard foods for a few weeks to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant or hurting the jaw. Once your implant is fully healed, it will last the rest of your lifetime, just like a natural tooth should.
The Health Benefits of an Implant
A dental implant comes with a set of health benefits. It creates constant pressure on the jawbone, ensuring it remains stimulated and maintains density. You will also fill in the gaps, which prevents the neighboring teeth from loosening and deteriorating. A dental implant also helps you regain the ability to eat all types of food, which is an excellent way to maintain oral and overall health. Finally, an implant restores your happy smile.
The benefits of getting a quality dental implant are countless. Speak to a competent dentist to help you determine whether you need an implant and if the procedure will work for you. When properly installed, an implant restores your overall oral health.
For more information on dental implant treatment, contact a professional near you.