How do dental implants work?

Tooth loss can have a far-reaching effect on your dental health and personal appearance. When you lose one or more teeth, your remaining teeth can drift out of position. This can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay and gum disease. Dental implants can be an effective method to replace one tooth or seveeral teeth. Each implant consists of a metal anchor that is inserted into the jawbone, and a protruding post, which is outfitted with an artificial tooth. Implants can also support a bridge, replace a partial denture. or secure a fixed denture. The process requires surgery and may take 4-12 months to complete. In certain cases, immediate-load impants might be an option Your mouth should be examined by both a restorative dentist and an oral surgeon before the decision to perform the dental implant procedure is made.The surgeon determines the condition of your jaws and gums while the dentist assesses the fit of the present dentures or the tooth gap. They may also take X-rays and/or computer images, and the dentist will make replicas of your teeth and jaws. Factors which may affect the decision to use implants include diabeties and allergies, along with any medications you take, alcohol and drug use, and smoking. Very few medical conditions actually rule out the use of dental implants. The health of your gums and oral tissues and the shape of your jaws are also important factors in the decision to use dental implants.

Several steps are usually necessary to place an implant. Depending on the type of implant, the steps may vary. In the first procedure under anesthesia, a metal anchor, or artificial root, is placed into the jawbone. Bone grows around the anchor. This takes about three to six months. Next, a healing post is placed when the implant is uncovered. The healing post is removed and a metal post (the abutment) is attached to the anchor A mold is taken and an artificial tooth is made. One to two weeks later, the new tooth is completed and cemented to the abutment. Further appointments may be necessary for comfort and final bite adjustments. Your implant will function just as your original tooth did, and should be treated with the same care. Brush and floss at least twice a day, and for the first two weeks, avoid stain-causing foods such as coffee, tea, berries and other such items. Brush after every meal and snack during these first two weeks.Before the tooth is in place, be sure to bruch and floss the abutment(s) as well. Avoid chewing hard objects and sticky foods With proper care, your implants will last you a lifetime. .