If you have a damaged or missing tooth, your dentist may recommend that you get a dental implant. It’s an ideal treatment to prevent further tooth decay or replace a denture or bridge that no longer works.
A dental implant is a solution to many dental problems, but most people are hesitant to go through the process because of one big question in their head: Is a dental implant permanent? Or will you experience the same problem all over again?
Do you have the same concern? Before knowing the answer to that question, you must understand what dental implants are.
What Are Dental Implants?
In short, dental implants are artificial teeth with roots made of titanium. These are surgically placed in the jawbone and serve as the foundation for dental crowns used to replace damaged teeth.
Here’s How It Works
Once your dentist has determined you’re a good candidate for dental implants, the process begins with a detailed conversation about your expectations and dental plan. The dentist then prepares the area where the dental implant will be placed.
The procedure involves the following:
- First, your jawbone is cleaned and prepared. Your dentist will remove the surface layer of the bone and place the implant in the best position.
- The implant is placed.
- The implant may be anchored in place.
- Once that is done, the surrounding tissue and gum are healed.
- A special post is placed on the implant to keep it in place.
- When it heals, your dentist will place a temporary restoration on the implant. Over the next six months, your jawbone will change and fuse with the implant.
- Finally, the dentist can then put in a permanent prosthetic.
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
A dental implant is basically a screw that is inserted into your jawbone. If it’s placed correctly, it should stay in place indefinitely (unless you want to take it out!). Like any screw, there’s always a chance that the implant can be damaged or that the bone will not grow around it.
To help prevent this, your dentist will ensure that the dental implant is placed in a healthy portion of your jawbone. They will also use a long screw with a wide base to prevent the implant from being damaged by chewing.
How Do You Care For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are permanent, but it doesn’t mean you just leave them unattended. You need to care for them to last long. Here are some essential tips to keep your implant in good condition.
- Brush your teeth regularly, at least twice daily for two minutes each time. Brush teeth and surrounding gum with a toothbrush, interdental brush, or dental floss. Don’t forget about the tongue.
- Eat a healthy diet and avoid foods that are hard to digest, such as nuts and popcorn. It will help keep plaque and food debris away from your dental implant.
- Visit the dentist regularly to monitor the condition of your dental implants.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease, which can affect the success rate of dental implants.
Conclusion
For most people, dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss. They are an excellent solution for missing or damaged teeth. The implant is placed in the bone, so it should last a lifetime. However, it would be best if you took care of the dental implants as you would take care of your regular teeth.
In addition to the aforementioned dental treatments, other tooth replacement solutions include bridges and dentures. All three of these treatments have risks and benefits, so it’s best to discuss with your dentist the pros and cons of each if you have tooth problems.
Are you looking for reliable dental implants in Alexandria? Galleria Dental of Alexandria offers denture implants, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and other services. We are also a 24-hour emergency dental clinic and can perform root canals, crowns, and bridges. Book a consultation with us!