As we age, our teeth may start to fall out or become damaged due to decay, injury, or other oral health issues. Missing teeth can make us feel self-conscious, affect our ability to eat and speak properly, and even lead to other dental problems. Fortunately, dental implants provide a durable, natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth and restoring your appearance. In this article, we’ll discuss what dental implants are, how they work, and why you might consider getting them from a dentist in Adelaide.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots inserted in the mandible to support a replacement tooth or bridge. They are composed of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, that can fuse with the bone to form a stable base for dental restoration.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The process of getting dental implants usually involves several steps and may take several months to complete. Here’s what you can expect when getting dental implants from a dentist Adelaide:
- Consultation: First, make an appointment with your dentist to discuss your oral health, medical history, and treatment options. Your dentist will evaluate the density and quality of your mandible by examining your teeth and gums and taking x-rays or photographs of your mandible. They may also recommend other treatments, like bone grafting, to prepare your jawbone for implant placement.
- Implant Placement: Once you are ready for implant placement, your dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia and make a small incision in your gum to expose the jawbone. They will then drill a small hole in the bone and insert the implant into it. Your dentist will then cover the implant with a protective cap and sutures to allow it to recover and integrate with the bone.
- Osseointegration: The process of osseointegration is when the bone grows and fuses with the implant, creating a stable and secure foundation for the restoration. This process can take several months to complete, during which time you will need to avoid putting pressure on the implant and follow your dentist’s instructions for oral hygiene and care.
- Abutment Placement: Your dentist will affix an abutment to the implant after the implant has fused with the bone. Abutments are small connectors that secure replacement teeth or bridges in position. Your dentist will make a print of your teeth so that he or she can make a replacement that fits perfectly and looks like it belongs in your mouth.
- Restoration Placement: Finally, your dentist will attach the replacement tooth or bridge to the abutment. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and proper bite. Your new teeth will appear and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to confidently eat, speak, and smile.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
In comparison to prostheses and bridges, dental implants offer several advantages. Here are several reasons to contemplate having dental implants from an Adelaide dentist:
- Natural Appearance: Dental implants appear and feel like natural teeth, enhancing your smile and bolstering your self-confidence.
- Long-Lasting: With appropriate care and maintenance, dental implants are designed to last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment in your oral health.
- Improved Function: Dental implants allow you to eat, speak, and chew properly, without worrying about the discomfort or embarrassment of missing teeth.
- Improved Comfort: Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are fixed in place and do not slip or move around in your mouth, providing you with greater comfort and convenience.
- Convenience: Dental implants do not require special care or maintenance and can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth.
- Better Speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain words. Dental implants can improve your speech and communication skills.
- Increased Confidence: With a restored smile, you may feel more assured and confident in social and professional situations.