Dental Implants in Hamersley

Your dentist will closely check the condition of your teeth and gums, your medical history, and other information to determine your candidacy for the dental implant procedure. Generally, they consider the following factors:

• Healthy gums.
  Anyone with healthy gums, meaning no existing gum problems like inflammation, or infection, can undergo the treatment. This is essential since dental implants are inserted below the gums and in the jaw bone. The gum tissue should be able to withstand the process of placement and healing process.
  
  
• Sufficient and good jawbone density.
  A good candidate must have a good amount of jaw bone that can support dental implants. It is crucial for the success of the entire procedure.
  
  
• Fully understand the process.
  The placement of dental implants can be more invasive than with other dental restorations, like traditional dentures and dental bridges. So, you must understand the steps and be aware of the benefits and risks of the procedures. Your dentist will be there to guide you and help you give the necessary information during a consultation.
  
  
• Non-smoker.
  Ideally, you can undergo the implant procedure if you don’t smoke, as smoking habits can be detrimental to the recovery period.

Here’s the list of benefits of dental implants:

• Long-lasting.
  While teeth replacements may last for 5 to 10 years, a dental implant itself can be a long-lasting dental restoration option. Providing you with new teeth that are stable and a worthwhile investment for your dental health.
  
  
• Promote better oral health.
  Replacing your teeth can be beneficial to your cosmetic (appearance) and overall oral health. It keeps the chewing force of your teeth intact and avoids the possible consequences of not replacing missing teeth, such as misaligned teeth, poor bite, tooth decay, etc.
  
  
• It preserves the other teeth and jawbone.
  Losing a tooth and delaying restorations can allow the surrounding teeth to move towards the gap, posing a risk of spacing issues and decay. Also, bone density can deteriorate with time without the chewing simulation. But dental implants address such dental issues and improve areas of lacking.
  
  
• Improve the appearance.
  Without teeth, the face can sag and appear sunken. Fortunately, dental implants can allow you to retain the natural shape of your face and give a youthful look with new teeth.
  
  
• Improve speaking and chewing.
  Missing teeth can affect how you pronounce certain words and can be difficult to chew. But dental implants can address such a problem by replacing them with roots for better chewing ability.

• Consultation.
  The first step in getting dental implants is for your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. They will check the quality of your jawbone to see if there is adequate support for the dental implant and evaluate the ideal position for the metal posts.
  
  
• Treatment plan.
  They will also take into account the number of implants you need and create a treatment plan. Once you and your dentist agree to proceed with the surgery, you can schedule a date for the procedure.
  
  
• Placement.
  The next step is to have the dental implant placed. It is a surgical procedure that is usually done under anesthesia. After numbing the area, your dentist will make a small incision on your gums. Then, drill holes deep into the jawbone where your dental implants will be inserted.
  
  
• Healing time.
  Your wound and bone are given time to heal so that new bone grows around the implant. This is called osseointegration, and it usually lasts for three to six months.
  
  
• Attaching the abutment and artificial teeth.
  Once the implant is secured to the bone, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. Your dental professional will take an impression that will be used to fabricate a crown, bridge or denture. Once fabricated, the finished crown, bridge or denture will be attached to the implant.

Dental implants have associated risks similar to any dental procedure, and it’s important to be aware of them before treatment. Although, your caring dentist will do everything to minimise potential problems and make the procedure as smooth as possible.

• Damage to the surrounding teeth.
• During the procedure, it may be possible to injure the surrounding oral structures or tissues, such as sinus cavities.
• Risk of infection at the implant area.
• Nerve damage can cause numbness of the lips, gums, teeth, and chin.
• Sinus problems may occur when the implant is positioned in the upper jaw and extends beyond one of the sinus cavities.

Traditional dentures are removable; they usually hang on the gums and are supported by denture adhesive and suction from the mouth’s roof (palate) or floor. Since they are not securely attached, they tend to loosen over time. In contrast, implants are generally considered to be more comfortable than traditional dentures, as they do not shift or slip in the mouth. They also provide better support for the denture, making it less likely to loosen or fall out.

Additionally, implant-supported dentures stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss. However, implants require minor surgery to insert the titanium posts.

Dental implants are similar to natural teeth in the sense that they are low-maintenance and do not require much care. However, it doesn’t mean that you can skip your oral hygiene habits. Doing so can put them at risk of decay and may deteriorate with time. Like natural teeth, it is important to follow your dentist’s tips on how to take care of them so that they last as long as possible.

• Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Opt for less harsh toothpaste; avoid those with crystals in them.
• Floss daily using implant-specific floss or unwaxed tape.
• Ensure you’re also brushing around and under the implant crown.
• Use an interdental brush to reach certain areas.
• Ask the dentist for a recommended oral irrigator.