
Do you have any missing teeth? Or are you unhappy with your dentures? Perhaps it’s time to consider getting dental implants. Dental implants are a permanent solution that look and feel like natural teeth. Today, we’ll walk you through the most important things you need to know before getting dental implants.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium, mainly composed of three components: the implant post, the abutment, and the dental prosthesis. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth or dental bridges.
The process of getting dental implants starts with a consultation, where a dentist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess your oral health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. And if you have healthy gums and good jawbone density, you are likely a good candidate.
Once you have been determined to be a candidate for dental implants, you may require tooth extraction or bone grafting to remove any remaining damaged teeth or to guarantee appropriate bone support for the implants.
Also, during this preparatory phase, it is necessary to follow any pre-operative instructions, including fasting before the surgery, medications to avoid, and transportation arrangements to and from the dental clinic.
On the day of the surgery, you will be given local anesthesia to ensure a painless experience and minimal discomfort. The first step is implant placement, where the dental implant post is surgically placed into your jawbone. The implant is carefully placed into the jawbone, and in some cases, a temporary crown or bridge may be placed on the implant to maintain aesthetics.
Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with the jawbone, and this creates a strong and durable bond between the dental implant and the bone. After the implant has fully integrated and completely healed, an abutment is attached to it, which serves as a connector for the replacement tooth or dental bridge. Subsequently, once the gums have healed around the abutment, impressions of the mouth and remaining teeth are taken to make the permanent prosthesis.
Remember that bruising, discomfort, and swelling are common following surgery. This is why it is critical to follow post-operative care instructions to guarantee optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications. Plus, it is important to follow a soft-food diet and avoid excessive physical activities to allow the surgical site to heal correctly.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants can help a lot of people, from people who need to replace missing teeth to individuals who want to avoid dentures. And with their numerous benefits, they have become a popular choice for tooth replacement.
- They provide a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing result. Dental implants look and feel like just your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend. This helps maintain your face’s natural shape and greatly enhances your confidence.
- They function just like your natural teeth. Dental implants allow you to eat, chew, speak, and smile with confidence and ease without worrying about them slipping. Plus, they are more durable and long-lasting compared to other tooth replacement options.
- They help preserve your jawbone’s health. Dental implants help maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss by stimulating bone growth. They likewise preserve the integrity of your natural teeth, as dental implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, as is the case with dental bridges.
With these benefits, it’s so convincing to get dental implants. But the question remains, “Are dental implants right for you?”
Dental implants offer many benefits, but they may not be suitable for everyone. It is essential to contact a dentist to determine your eligibility, and here at Smyl Dentistry, we’ll help you understand more about how dental implants can benefit you and walk you through the process with the utmost care.
Additionally, several factors, such as overall health, jawbone density, and oral hygiene, play a significant role in determining candidacy for dental implants. And if you have certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes, you may not be a suitable candidate for dental implants.
How do you properly take care of your dental implants?
Proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the longevity of your dental implants. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Brush daily and floss regularly. Brush and floss your dental implants regularly, just as you would your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristle brush and floss every day to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects. Although dental implants are strong, excessive force can still damage them. Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pencils, or pens to prevent any potential damage.
- Visit Smyl Dentistry regularly. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the health of your dental implants and identifying any potential issues early on. By doing this, you can prevent more serious complications. Plus, our dentists can provide cleanings to keep your implants looking and feeling their best.
Following these tips will allow you to enjoy the benefits of your dental implants for years to come.
What are the common concerns with dental implants?
Dental implants generally work and have a high success rate, but it’s important to know about any problems that could happen. Some common issues include infection, implant failure, and nerve damage.
As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. However, by taking good care of your implants and going to the dentist regularly, the risk can be minimized.
In rare cases, dental implants may fail to integrate with the jawbone or become loose over time. This can happen for various reasons, such as poor oral hygiene, certain medical conditions, or smoking.
Lastly, there’s a small risk of nerve damage during the implant surgery. This may result in numbness or tingling in the chin, lips, or tongue. This only lasts a short time but can be a cause for concern.
It is important to speak with any of our dentists about any concerns or questions you may have to ensure a positive dental implant experience.
Consider Dental Implants in Toronto, ON
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back; contact Smyl Dentistry for expert care and personalized treatment. We’ll guide you in your journey towards a confident and healthy smile with dental implants. Contact us today at 365-656-0489.
Contact Information
- Phone: 416-531-2761
- Email: [email protected]
Address
- 608 Bloor Street W
- TORONTO, ON M6G 1K4
Hours
Parking
Green P parking on Palmerston and Euclid, residential street parking, meter parking on Bloor. Residential street parking from 10a-12a
Subway
One block over from TTC subway station (Bathurst)