If you’ve lost a tooth, your dentist may have recommended getting a dental implant to fill the empty space and allow for optimal function of your teeth. The dental implant itself is only a replacement for the root of the lost tooth, so after the implant has been placed, you’ll still need to get a restoration, or replacement tooth. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth. You can replace one tooth or many and implants can be placed anywhere in the mouth.
A dental implant is basically a screw that is inserted into your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root for the missing or removed tooth. It is generally made of titanium which is compatible with human bone and will actually stimulate the jawbone like a real root would. The implant is surgically inserted into your jaw and is not visible above the gumline. With regular check-ups, these implants can last a whole lifetime so are an effective and reliable way to repair missing teeth.
To make the new tooth or teeth to go with your implant, your dentist will make an impression of your existing teeth, creating a model of your bite. The new restoration, most typically a crown, will be based on this model so it will blend in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. The crown, which is usually made of ceramic, is then attached to the connector point (abutment) on your implant. In general, a crown should last at least 10 or 15 years before it may need to be replaced. Dental implants to repair broken or lost teeth are the most effective and long-lasting way to mend your smile.
Replacing a lost tooth is essential to a healthy mouth and a healthy body. It will provide you with increased aesthetics of course, but will also improve your speech, ease of eating, and oral hygiene. If you’re looking for dental implant restoration work in the Marietta area, contact the professionals at Kenmar Dental.
The best thing you can do to ensure your new implants last as long as possible is to practice good oral hygiene. This is done by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once as well as visiting your dentist every 6 months. Poor oral health can lead to gum disease and gum recession which might compromise the implant.
Be aware that implants at the back of your mouth may not last as long as implants elsewhere in the mouth. This is because you use your back teeth for grinding and chewing food so more pressure is put on the implant. You may also clench your jaw or grind your teeth when you sleep.
Certain types of food may also affect your implant’s lifespan. Your Marietta dentist will give you guidance on how to best care for your implants, especially during the first few weeks after the procedure.
There needs to be a certain level of bone density for a successful implant repair. This can naturally decrease with age but may also occur if you have had a missing tooth or teeth for some time. If you don’t have enough bone density, mini implants might be the answer.
Your general health is also important if you choose the dental implant repair procedure. If you have a pre-existing underlying health condition such as diabetes or cancer, this type of dental restoration work might not be the best solution for you. Your dentist will go over all available treatment options when you come in for your visit.
Very occasionally, your dental implant might get loose, chipped or damaged. This does not happen very often as dental implants have a very high success rate. If your implant does become loose, however, please contact Kenmar Dental straight away. The issue will not resolve by itself and may end up damaging the implant crown, gum, or even your jawbone. Your Marietta dentist needs to repair or tighten your dental implant to prevent further issues.
If your implant is chipped or damaged, it is possible to repair but may also require an implant replacement. If a new implant is needed, a bone graft may also be necessary to strengthen the jawbone. Your dentist will discuss all possible treatments when you visit Kenmar Dental in Marietta, GA.
