What Are Some Of The Possible Benefits Of Implant Dentistry

There are several benefits to implant dentistry. When a tooth needs to be replaced, typically a bridge is used. When a larger amount or even all of them must be replaced, then the traditional solution is dentures. Neither of these choices is permanent. Implants work for one tooth or an entire row and they last a lifetime.

A bridge will affect several teeth. To replace one tooth, the neighboring teeth are slightly ground to accommodate the bridge. They have to be taken care of properly or they may cause damage to the gums. Dentures are not always a comfortable fit. They can separate from the gums at embarrassing times. Glue is required to keep them in and they do not always appear natural. Users complain of clicking noises and the difficulty they can present for chewing certain foods.

Over time the lack of teeth will cause the gum and the bone structure to weaken. The gums start to recede and bone degrades. The mouth starts to have a fallen in appearance. When the tooth root is no longer in the jaw bone it atrophies. The stress caused by that root is what keeps the bone strong.

The process of implanting can take anywhere from eight weeks to a year. This will depend upon many factors. General health has to be good and so does oral health. The gums should be free of disease and the bones in the jaw need to be in good condition. When there is an issue with either of these it must be corrected before the process can begin.

On the occasion a bone is not strong or properly formed, a graft may be necessary. This is done with bone or with a substitute. The doctor will state which is best. This is usually done when there has been an injury to the bone or significant deterioration. The bonding will take anywhere from four months to a year to complete.

The first part of the implant process is to screw titanium pins into the jaw bone. The pins are given time to bond to the bone. This can take two to six months. A temporary cap can be placed over this area. Extensions are then placed on the pins, another two weeks of healing follows. The next step is to place a metal post on the extension. Finally the tooth is placed on the post.

Once these are in place they are simple to maintain. Just brush and floss as would be done with natural teeth. These are in place below the gum line and so look as natural as the rest of the teeth. There is no deterioration of the gums and bone beneath. No fear of them moving or shifting. Food can be enjoyed as it was prior to the replacement.

Implant dentistry can help restore confidence. Smiles come a lot easier when a person knows their mouth looks natural and healthy. People enjoy the freedom from glues and soaking. An they know there will never be an embarrassing moment because of their teeth. As long as these are cared for they should not need to be replaced or repaired for at least ten years.