Steps To Successful Tooth Implants

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Steps to Successful Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth placed directly into the jaw via a surgical procedure. Dental implants are great for people who are in good health, but, who have lost teeth due to any number of misfortunes. Implants are very natural looking and feel almost exactly like “regular teeth” when you bite or chew food.

Since they are connected to the gums and bone in your mouth, a periodontist will normally be the primary member of any tooth implant team. They will usually give you an initial consultation, and let you know where the implant(s) will be placed.

Depending on the type of implants you wish to use and your mouth’s current condition, the periodontist will create a custom tailored treatment plan. Many things can alter this plan. For instance, will you be replacing a single tooth, or several teeth?

It’s also quite common for Prosthodontists and Oral Surgeons to perform dental implant procedures.  And in larger, multi-disciplinary clinics or dental groups, it’s commonplace for the three specialists to work together on implant cases.  Particularly if the implants are part of a full-mouth reconstruction project.  But even outside of larger clinical settings, it’s not at all uncommon for the primary dentist to consult with and possibly refer you to one or more other specialists.

Single tooth replacement can be carried out with an implant and a dental crown. This procedure replaces not only the tooth, but also the tooth’s root. It also carries a number of advantages over other options; it looks like a natural tooth and the implant can be placed in the mouth without harming neighboring teeth.

Since the dental implant replaces the root in addition to the crown, your bone usually remains intact. In the long run, a single tooth replacement can be easier to keep clean than a dental bridge and your gums will not recede around the metal.  Single tooth implant is a great option.

When replacing multiple teeth, a dental bridge is usually necessary. These bridges will replace all of the lost natural teeth and many of the roots.

First, implants that look like screws are placed within your jaw and left to heal. A few months later, the implants and bone will have usually bonded together. Next, abutments (small metal posts) are installed to complete the foundation. Your gums are then allowed a few weeks to heal before the process continues. Finally, bridges (or replacement teeth rows) will be created for you, and installed by your periodontist. These replacements are attached to the before mentioned abutments.

After your implants have been installed, the recovery process begins. Full recovery and healing usually takes about 3-6 weeks.  This, of course, will depend on the number and type of dental implants used in your procedure – the more implants, the longer the healing time.

To avoid complications while healing, one should avoid smoking cigarettes. It can also be beneficial to use ibuprofen or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (your provider will most likely prescribe), which will decrease swelling and ease pain.

Also, proper oral hygiene is imperative while you heal.  And the use of a non-alcoholic mouthwash may help to keep the implant areas more sanitary, which will speed healing.  Your dentist will most likely provide you with several products and thorough instructions that will enable you to properly clean and maintain your new appliance at home.

Though they aren’t nearly as good as the real thing, properly installed dental implants are currently the best alternative for replacing lost teeth.  If both the installation and maintenance are done correctly and the patient maintains good physical and oral health, these devices can perform well and last for several decades.

By: Paul Guenther

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