Dental Implants

Dental implants are more common these days and most people are choosing to get dental implants. They are especially helpful to people who have lost their teeth as a result of an injury or an illness and have got artificial replacement teeth. Dental implants are roots that are placed in the jaw to hold a replacement tooth in place.

When one loses teeth, it is common for the jawbone to become disfigured because the teeth help shape the jawbone. The dental implants are helpful in restoring the structure of the jawbone as well as protecting the area around the gum where the teeth was removed. The implants are usually made of titanium because it does react negatively to the body. It is also the best choice as it eventually fuses with the jawbone.

There are two types of dental implants. The first is endosteal. This involves the implants being inserted in to the jawbone to hold the teeth in place. The implants used in this type of procedure are mostly shaped like screws, plates or cylinders. Most people usually get this kind.

The other kind is known as subperiosteal. In this type of implant, the implants are placed on the jawbone. This kind of procedure is suitable for people whose jawbone is shallow and cannot allow the endosteal implants.

Usually, the implants are fitted into a patient before the artificial teeth are put. The implants take about 5 or 6 months to heal and then the teeth are fitted in. It is advisable for one not to drink alcohol or smoke as this may damage the implants and they may take longer to heal.

The procedures performed to put implants in a patient differ on the number of teeth one requires replaced. There are trained specialists for this kind of procedures, who consult with a dentist to see which kind of implant is most suitable for a patient. These specialists are referred to as periodontists. After the procedure is completed, the patient will need to continue taking care of their teeth in the usual ways, that is by brushing regularly and flossing. They will also be required to visit the dentist to ensure that there are no complications with the procedure and also have the implants cleaned.

It is not surprising that most people go for dental implants as they have very high chances of success. With these, you can live a normal life even after loss of teeth.