The value of restoring your smile is immeasurable, and often a significant investment in your health and overall well-being. When replacing teeth, weighing your options and choosing the right solution involves more than just aesthetics.
Dental implants often stand out as the top-tier choice among available tooth replacement solutions. It does require a larger initial investment than bridges or dentures, but the dividends it pays in terms of longevity and reliability are unparalleled.
Let’s break down the process and maintenance you can expect when investing in a dental implant.
What is a Dental Implant?
The anatomy of an implant can be broken down into three key ingredients:
– Post: The post is the foundation of the implant. Made of surgical-grade titanium, it is placed into the jawbone.
– Abutment: This is added after the initial implant has healed. This piece protrudes just above your gumline to support the dental crown.
– Crown: This is your “new tooth,” the portion of the implant you can see. More vulnerable to wear-and-tear than the post, the crown may need to be replaced every 10 -20 years.
Steps to Dental Implant Restoration
Dental implants require two main processes: placement and restoration. The placement includes surgically inserting the post below the gumline, followed by a 4 to 6 month waiting period that allows the post to fully fuse to the jawbone.
Implant restoration begins when your dentist places the abutments. There will be a brief waiting period that follows. Once the implant has healed, the crown will be affixed to the abutment either with dental cement or by using screw-retention.
The Lifespan of a Dental Implant
Much like real teeth, the lifespan of a dental implant depends on how you treat it. If you practice good oral hygiene and are up-to-date on regular cleanings and check-ups, your dental implant can last a lifetime.
That level of durability and longevity make implants one of the most cost-effective options for tooth replacement. The investment will be more upfront, but compared to bridges and dentures, implants are long-lasting and low maintenance.
Maintaining Your Implants
The best part about your dental implant is the upkeep. Maintenance doesn’t take much more than your regular, everyday oral hygiene practices:
– Brush at least twice a day. Make sure you are thoroughly cleaning all of your teeth, including your gum line.
– Floss every day to remove the bacteria and debris your toothbrush can’t reach. Be sure to ask your dentist if your implant will require any specific flossing techniques.
– Use an antibacterial mouthwash. Combining mouthwash with regular brushing and flossing will minimize the risk of cavities and gum issues.
– Routine Dental Visits. Regular dental cleanings (every 6 months) allow your dentist to monitor your implants and promptly address any issues.
Dental implants are an investment in your confidence and your oral health. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime.
If you are considering tooth replacement, Restoration Dental is here to help you find the best solution. Our dental implant process utilizes 3-dimensional optical scans, allowing us to replicate your adjacent teeth in both shape and shade. In addition, our 3-dimensional x-ray unit emits the lowest amount of radiation of its kind – allowing us to place implants with the highest precision safely and efficiently.
For more information, give us a call or book an appointment online.