Dental implants are an effective solution that replaces missing teeth. They restore the smile and functionality (like chewing, speaking, and more) of teeth. Here, we will give you an overview of dental implants in North York that will help you make the right treatment choice to restore your teeth operation and smile aesthetic.
Definition of Dental Implants
Dental implants are small metal posts surgically placed into the jawbone. They act like the roots of natural teeth. If an implant is firmly set in the jawbone, a dentist may attach a crown or alternative tooth to it. This helps the teeth appear and function efficiently like natural teeth.
Generally, implants are made of titanium, a strong and lightweight material. Titanium is biocompatible, which means it can bond well with the jawbone of your mouth. This bonding process is known as osseointegration, and it helps implants to serve as a solid foundation for your new tooth.
Eligibility to Get Dental Implants
Dental implants are suitable for the majority of people but not for everyone. One can determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants by considering the following factors:
- Healthy gums: Your gums should be healthy and strong. Since the implant will heal under your gums, the presence of gum diseases may require treatment before getting an implant.
- Strong jawbone: Since the implant is positioned on your jawbone, the jawbone should have enough density to support the titanium post. If your bone is too thin or weak, you may need a bone graft to strengthen the bone before the implant can be set in place.
- Good overall health: Certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes and more, affect healing. Before proceeding with the dental implants process, the dentist will ensure you are in good health. Good health ensures effective implant procedures and thus quick healing.
- Oral care: One who is committed to following oral habits is suitable to get dental implants. Taking care of your teeth is important for the success of your dental implants. Good oral care keeps your implants in good shape and avoids gum disease, tooth loss, and more. Brushing and flossing regularly will ensure that your implants last as long as possible and function properly. Keeping your mouth clean is the most effective way to keep your dental implants healthy and functional.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants have several benefits, which are:
- Realistic appearance and function: Implants appear and operate like natural teeth. They are designed to resemble other teeth in your mouth so that they can complement your smile.
- Strong: Dental implants are strong and durable, and they can last for a lifetime if properly taken care of. Unlike dentures, which may need to be replaced every few years, implants are long-lasting.
- Bone preservation: When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area can start to shrink over time. The implant will help to stimulate the bone and prevent it from shrinking, thus maintaining the shape of your jaw.
- No impact on neighbouring teeth: Implants do not impact neighbouring teeth, as this titanium post is inserted into the jawbone. Unlike bridges, which require support from nearby teeth
- Improved oral function: They help to restore the beauty and functionality of teeth, such as chewing and speaking properly, and more thus enhance dental health.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
There are a few stages of dental implants, which are:
- Consultation and planning: The dentist will understand your concern and take X-rays to check your bone structure and see if you are eligible for implants. Based on the report, the dentist will develop an implant treatment plan for you.
- Implant placement: If you are a good candidate, the dentist will schedule the surgery to place the implant. During the surgery, the dentist makes a small incision in your gum to expose the bone. After this, they make a small hole in the bone and then insert a titanium implant.
- Healing period: The implant is allowed to remain in place so the bone can heal and connect to it. This process may take months, and during this period, the implant will integrate into the bone firmly enough to support a crown.
- Abutment placement: After the implant has integrated with the bone, the dentist will place an abutment on top of the implant. The abutment serves as a connector element and holds the crown in place.
- Crown placement: Finally, the dentist will fix the crown to the abutment. Crowns are custom-made to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth so that they look and feel like real teeth.
Tips to Take Care of Dental Implants
The success of a dental implant depends on how well you take care of them. Here are some tips to help you keep your implants healthy:
- Brush and floss regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily help remove plaque and other particles from the mouth. Which means good oral hygiene for the mouth and implants.
- A regular visit to a dentist: A visit to the dental clinic for a checkup helps to check the overall mouth and thus implant. In case the dentist detects an issue in the mouth, they recommend the right treatment to solve it.
- Avoid chewing hard foods: Dental implants are strong, and dentists recommend avoiding chewing food forcefully on them. These might affect the crown and dental implants.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure. Professionals recommend giving up smoking as it helps to improve the success rate of your implant.
Restore Your Smile with Implants Today at Dentistry on Bayview
If you are considering getting dental implants, discuss it with your dentist to know if they are right for you. Remember, the key to a healthy and beautiful smile is taking good care of your implants.
Dentistry on Bayview is a professional clinic dedicated to offering quality dental care in a comfortable environment. Our team of dentist in North York offers multiple dental services tailored to meet patients’ unique needs. Utilizing the latest technology and equipment, we provide the right care to help you achieve your smile goal. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let our team help you achieve optimal oral health.