Dental implants are basically appliances that are used to replace missing teeth. They are attached to the jawbone with the help of metal posts that act as the root of missing teeth. Implants provide a lot of support to surrounding teeth. The metal posts attached at the bottom which function as the root, an abutment that helps hold the crown, and the crown over which an artificial tooth is placed. The metal post is generally made of titanium metal or any other preferable metal.

 

Dental implants procedure

The procedure begins by creating an individualized plan for the patient. The patient’s past medical history and the dental record are analysed. This is done to avoid complications as dental implants are not suitable for patients suffering from diabetes, cancer, and any other chronic diseases. Smokers are also advised not to opt for dental implants. After making sure that the patient is eligible for dental implants, the dentist will begin with the procedure.

A metal post is fit into the jawbone. This metal post is made up of metals like titanium. After fitting it into the teeth, the posts are left alone for 12-14 weeks, to allow them to heal. During this period, the jawbone tissue around the metallic post grows and the post gets embedded in the tissue. Embedding of the metallic posts into the jawbone tissue into the jawbone allows a good foundation for the artificial tooth. These posts act as the roots, so it is essential for them to be strong enough to hold the crown as well as the tooth. After the posts have healed, an abutment is placed over the posts to hold the crown. Then, impressions of the teeth are taken to create a model. The bite, jaw joint, and the teeth surface are recorded and a model is made accordingly. Now, this model is used for the preparation of an artificial tooth.

While the artificial tooth is being prepared, a crown is placed over the abutment. Then the artificial tooth is placed over the abutment and the procedure is completed.

 

Caring for dental implants

Dental implants can last a patient’s lifetime, given that the patient properly takes care of them. Let us try to understand how to take care of the dental implants.

1.Use soft toothbrushes

Dental implants should be cleaned with a toothbrush much gentler than a regular toothbrush. Regular toothbrushes can scratch the surface of the teeth and can damage them. Make sure that you are switching toothbrushes when you get implants.

After selecting of the correct toothbrush, make sure that you are brushing daily twice a day. Patients are also advised to be gentle with implants, especially when they are new. Flossing the teeth daily is also recommended. Plaque can easily accumulate around dental implants, so it becomes more important to clean them on a daily basis.

2. Avoid these products

Abrasive and harsh products should be strictly avoided. Products manufactured especially for sensitive teeth containing mild cleansing agents should be used. Soft toothbrushes for sensitive teeth and mouthwashes containing fewer amounts of antibacterial chemicals should be used. The patient should also use more of the products recommended by the dentist. Products containing strong flavours and fragrances like mint, cinnamon, salt, etc. should also be avoided as they can cause extreme discomfort to the patient. Inflammation is also possible.

Abrasive products can seriously damage the surface of the dental implants and can make them dysfunctional.

3. Avoid these foods

Sticky and sweet foods can harm the teeth as well as the implants. Dried fruits and nuts should also be avoided as they are hard to chew and can damage the surface of dental implants. Crispy foods like chips, tacos, etc. foods should also be avoided as they can get stuck in the space between the abutment or crown. Vegetables and fruits like carrots, radishes, apples, etc. are also supposed to be avoided. These foods should be avoided on a daily basis, but it’s fine to eat them every once in a while. Patients are advised to consume foods with balanced flavours and soft surfaces.

4. Quit smoking and alcohol

Cigarettes and alcohol can damage the teeth as well as the implants. After installing the implants, it takes them 6 months to heal from the procedure. Smoking during this period can hinder the healing of gums and teeth. It can also worsen the pain caused due to settling of the dental implants. Alcohol consumption is also said to slow down the process of healing and can damage implants.

5. Regular dentist visits

Regular dental visits ensure that the dental implants have adjusted in the mouth. During such visits, the patient can also let the dentist know about any discomfort due to dental implants. The dentist will look into the issues and make sure that the implants are functioning properly. Dental cleaning may also be performed during any of these visits. Professional cleaning ensures that there are no underlying bacteria causing harm. It also helps clean any plaque accumulation. Also, the patient should inform the dentist about dental implants, the dentist will be extra careful and gentle with the teeth.

Patients are advised to visit the dentist twice every year. With proper care, these dental implants will last the patient’s entire lifetime.

6. Dental Implants Aftercare

After the completion of the dental implant procedure, the patients are given instructions about caring for teeth. Primarily, the patients are advised to avoid certain foods and clean teeth properly after meals, so as to avoid bacterial accumulation. Also, immediately after the procedure, the patient will feel pain in the gums and the area around dental implants. This is normal during the first few days after getting implants. This discomfort should not last more than a few days and the patient should contact the dentist if it continues. Bleeding a few hours after the procedure is also common and the patients are advised to bite on a sponge to control it. Excessive movement and traveling should also be avoided for a few days. The patients are also advised to take the prescribed medications without fail.