The metal posts or frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath your gums efficiently are called the dental implants. They are put in place to allow the dentist to mount replacement onto them effectively. Your artificial teeth will receive robust and stable support as dental implants are fused to your jawbone. No doubt, you will get to enjoy and become more confident when eating or talking. The dentures and bridges mounted on implants won’t slip or even shift in your mouth. Compared to conventional bridges or dentures alone, this secure fit significantly helps the artificial teeth and bridges as well as individual crowns placed over implants to feel more natural.
Due to extreme sore spots, gagging, etc., many people see and feel conventional bridges and dentures as uncomfortable. Additionally, conventional bridges must be firmly attached to teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. Fortunately, with implants, there are no adjacent teeth needed to prepare or ground down to hold your new replacement tooth or teeth effectively in place.
Moreover, you need to have healthy gums as well as adequate bones to receive implants for extreme support. Plus, you must commit to keeping these structures as healthy as possible. For the long-term success of dental hygiene, make it a habit to do meticulous oral cleaning practices and visiting the dentist regularly.
Dental implants currently have two types that are widely available for patients, which are:
- Endosteal implants
This type is directly surgically implanted into the jawbone. A second surgery then is highly needed once the surrounding gum tissue has healed to connect a post to the original implant effectively. And lastly, the artificial tooth or teeth will be next to be attached to the post-individually or group on either a bridge or denture.
- Subperiosteal implants
A metal frame that is significantly fitted onto the jawbone right below the gum tissue is what these types consist. Then, the frame will eventually become fixed to the jawbone as the gums heal. Posts, which are dramatically fixed to the frame, protrude through the gums. Artificial teeth are then attached to the posts with the endosteal implants.
Taking Good Care of Implants
It is indeed true that most dental implants are successful. However, if you wish for it to last longer, you must remember by heart these following steps:
- You must embrace good oral hygiene.
It is imperative that you at least floss once and brush your teeth twice daily. The one that can significantly help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant are interdental brushes that slide between teeth.
- You must quit smoking.
Keep in mind that the bone structure weakens when you smoke, which as well significantly contributes to implant failure.
- Ensure you visit your dentist.
To make sure that your implant is still in excellent condition and will stay that way, you must visit the dentist for cleanings and exams. Going every six months is of great importance, and thus, is recommended.
