Dental Implants and How to Care For Them
Dental implants are designed to replace the roots of missing teeth. The implant is a titanium metal anchor that fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for replacement teeth. A successful implant requires a good overall oral health. An implant that isn’t cared for properly can result in infection, which could damage the surrounding teeth, facial bones or even cause more tooth loss. During an implant consultation, our team of providers, including a general dentist and surgeons, will assess your general oral health to determine whether an implant is a suitable option for you.남가좌동치과
Eligibility for a dental implant is determined through a comprehensive examination, which includes digital X-rays and 3D images of the mouth and jaw. We may also recommend a bone scan to detect any areas of deficiency or abnormality. We work with a staff dental hygienist to develop a post-implant placement maintenance plan that fosters a favorable prognosis for your new implant.
Once the site of an implant has healed, a connecting piece called an abutment is attached to the metal post portion of the implant. This allows the dentist to affix the crown, or tooth-like replacement, onto the abutment. Some patients might need to wait until the implant has osseointegrated, which can take several months. For others, this step can be done at the same time as the implant procedure.
The abutment can be covered with a temporary or permanent crown to hide the abutment and protect the gums. This step can be done with a local anesthetic in an outpatient setting.
During your recovery period, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow the instructions your dentist provides you. In addition, it’s important to avoid smoking or vaping as these habits can limit blood flow to the gums and interfere with progressive healing of the implant. It’s also important to call your dental professional if you have any pain or swelling that doesn’t improve or feels worse.
There are many types of dental implants available, and the best type for you depends on a number of factors. For example, a single implant might be the perfect solution to replace a lost tooth, while an implant-supported bridge is often the preferred treatment for replacing multiple missing teeth in the same area.이일우치과