Dental implants can be incredibly transformative and a fantastic long term solution to a range of dental problems, if approached correctly. It can be hard to navigate all of the options out there when it comes to repairing your teeth or making a seemingly hefty investment. Read on for all the information you need to know before deciding if and when to get dental implants San Diego.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant involves replacing the natural root of a tooth with metal. This metal comes in the form of a screw-shaped post, supporting an artificial tooth that replaces a damaged, missing or decaying tooth. This can be a good alternative to bridges and dentures. The procedure and what it involves largely depends on your pre-existing condition and the structure of your jaw. This can involve several procedures in order to achieve the desired effect, but the number of surgeries or options will always be determined on a case by case basis. A dental implant will serve as a solid root for missing teeth, the metal will fuse with your jawbone and ensure that everything stays solidly in place for the long term.
Who Needs a Dental Implant?
You may be prescribed a dental implant procedure in the case of a missing, broken or decaying tooth. Those with a fully grown jawbone, healthy oral tissues and who have adequate bone to accommodate the implants will be eligible for implants.
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Those who cannot have dentures fitted, want to improve their speech and are willing to commit to the longer process of dental implants are also going to be eligible for the procedure. Keep in mind that tobacco smokers are not able to undergo implant replacement.
Are There Any Risks?
Whilst getting dental implants is a relatively risk free and safe procedure, there are a few potential complications that can occur. This includes infection at the implant site, injury to the surrounding teeth, jaw or mouth areas, nerve damage or numbing of the lip, mouth or cheek and sinus issues. All of these risks are treatable, low potential and highly unlikely when you visit an attentive, accredited dental professional.
How to Prepare for a Dental Implant
You’ll need to visit your dentist and discuss your options for dental implants. This process is usually going to involve multiple visits and potential professional specialist services, so it’s important that you start your investigation sooner rather than later if you are experiencing pain or rehabilitating discomfort. You will need to begin your journey with a thorough examination and with a well maintained smile. Regular dental visits are key to ongoing health, if you’ve been slacking, book in for a clean and ask your dentist about your options for dental implants.
Options for Artificial Teeth
When you’re looking into dental implant surgery, you’ll notice that there are two significant options for your new artificial teeth. These options include:
Fixed: This type of tooth is permanently fixed, screwed or cemented into place onto an individual implant.
Removable: This is similar to a more conventional removable denture, this can be partial or full just as dentures can be. It contains artificial teeth surrounded by pink gum-like plastic which is mounted onto a metal frame and then attached to the metal implant inserted into your jaw. This means that it can easily be removed for cleaning or sleeping purposes. Talk to your dentist about your options for dental implants today.
