If you are missing a tooth, you might be a suitable candidate for dental implant surgery. Dental implants are considered a permanent solution and can help to restore both the form and function of one’s smile. Read on to find out how a dental implant works, and what you can expect from the treatment process…
Dental implants function as artificial tooth roots. Made from biocompatible titanium, implants are surgically inserted directly into the jawbone. Over time, the jawbone fuses with the dental implant. Once this process is complete, an artificial tooth or crown is attached to the implant for a natural-looking appearance.
The entire treatment process takes anywhere from three to 9 months to complete. The process typically begins with an assessment in which your teeth, gums and jaw are evaluated. At this stage, your dentist will check if you have adequate jawbone to support an implant, and that your gums are in good condition.
If you are a suitable candidate for treatment, your dentist will surgically place the implant in your jawbone. Although the procedure itself is performed under anaesthetic, which means that you won’t feel any discomfort, you are likely to experience some pain and swelling after surgery. This discomfort may last a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It is also a good idea that you eat liquid and soft foods during this time as your mouth heals from surgery. Some good options include smoothies, mashed fruits and vegetables, soups and yoghurt. Try and avoid foods that require too much chewing, and ones which can cause irritation to the site of surgery.
After surgery, it can take between two and six months for your dental implant to fuse with your jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. During the process of osseointegration, the bone will grow around the implant, which will ensure stability in the long-term. While you wait for the implant to fuse with the bone, you may choose to have a temporary crown placed.
When the implant has fused with the bone, a replacement tooth is placed. Your new tooth will look and feel just like a natural tooth, and you will be able to eat and speak normally.
It is important that you take care of your dental implant just as you would your natural teeth. This means brushing at least twice a day and flossing once daily. It is also essential that you see your dentist for regular check-ups so that any potential issues can be identified and addressed as early as possible.
Try to stick to a healthy diet high in whole foods and limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks. This will help to prevent oral health issues such as gum disease and tooth decay from developing, and will keep your implant and natural teeth in good condition.
At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, we offer a range of restorative dental services, including dental implants. If you are considering the treatment, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will examine your teeth and let you know if you are suited to a dental implant. If you are a suitable candidate and would like to go ahead with the treatment, we will guide you through the entire process and recovery.
We also offer a range of other dental services, including cosmetic, general and family dentistry. We also have a denture clinic on-site.
To arrange a consultation or to find out more about our services, please get in touch with us here or give us a call on 07 3889 3324. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our practices and helping to improve your oral health, as well as the appearance of your smile.
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Disclaimer: All surgical procedures carry risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
