What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?

What Is It?

Dental Implants are an artificial version of a tooth root. They are titanium frames or posts that are surgically fused beneath the gums and into the jawbone. They act as the anchor where a replacement or the artificial tooth can then be mounted.

Are There Different Types?

There are different types of implants, but many are outdated. Endosteal implants are the most widely used by dentists today. These implants are inserted directly into the jawbone and require a second surgery, once the initial implant has healed, to connect a post to that implant. An artificial tooth can then be secured to that post.

How Do They Work?

In order to be eligible for a dental implant, you must have healthy gums, excellent oral hygiene, and sufficient bone under your gums to provide support to the implant. If your bone is inadequate, a bone graft may be required to help strengthen that bone before inserting the implant. Implants provide stable support for bridges and dentures so they don’t shift in your mouth while speaking or eating. They give a more natural feel to artificial teeth and eliminate the need to prepare or grind down any adjacent teeth in order to attach any artificial hardware.

How To Care For Your Implant

• Quit Smoking – this will eliminate the possibility of weakening the bone and causing an implant to fail
• Avoid Chewing Hard Foods – Things like hard candies and ice cubes increase the risk of breaking a crown or artificial tooth
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene – Brush and floss often to keep the implant as clean as possible
• Keep Up On Your Dentist Visits – This will ensure your implant is always in the best condition

Courtesy of: Colgate