How Dental Implants Work

Do you or a loved one have missing teeth? If so, you’re likely to have seen how losing a tooth can impact someone’s life.

Aside from the difference in the appearance of a smile, it can also affect self-esteem and the ability to perform daily functions, such as chewing, eating, and speaking.

Dental implants offer a long-term solution. These titanium posts provide a robust foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Let’s go over the implant process, its benefits, and who might be a good candidate.

Parts of a Dental Implant

A dental implant acts as an artificial tooth root to which a replacement tooth or bridge can be attached. The implant post is usually made of biocompatible materials like titanium, which is absorbed by the body and merge with the jawbone over time.

It consists of the following parts:

• Implant. A screw-shaped or cylindrical post inserted into the jawbone.
• Abutment. A connection that supports and holds a tooth or a group of teeth.
• Crown. The tooth-like structure bonded onto or around the abutment.

How Do Implants Integrate with the Jawbone?

A biological process known as osseointegration is the key to the success of dental implants. This is when the bone structure forms around the implanted post and holds it firmly in place.

How Does the Implant Procedure Take Place?

• Implant Placement. Your dentist inserts the implant into the jawbone. Over a few months, the bone grows around the implant, securing it in place.
• Healing. The implant is left to heal for a few months while the osseointegration process takes place. This phase is crucial because it allows the implant to bond with the jawbone.
• Abutment Placement. Following healing, the abutment is attached to the implant. This connects the implant to the replacement tooth.
• Final Restoration. A custom-made replacement tooth is then attached to the abutment, completing the procedure and resulting in a natural-looking and functional tooth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Beyond aesthetics, dental implants offer several benefits that have made them a preferred option for tooth replacement:

• Improved Comfort. Dental implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
• Enhanced Speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without worrying about teeth that might slip.
• Easier Eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods confidently and without pain.
• Improved Oral Health. Unlike a tooth-supported bridge, a dental implant doesn't require reducing other teeth, improving long-term oral health.
• Durability. Implants are very durable and can last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.

Who Might Be a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Several factors are considered to identify ideal candidates for dental implants. This includes the following:

• Good Oral Health. Those who are interested in implants must have healthy gums and enough bone to support it.
• General Health. Some long-term illnesses, like diabetes or high blood pressure, can slow down healing and make a person unfit for implants.
• Oral Habits. Too much pressure on the implants, such as grinding, may damage them over time.
• Patience. Getting an implant can take months. If you're not ready to put in the work, implants might not be the best choice for you.

The Procedure and Recovery

Placing dental implants follows a set of steps. This includes surgery generally done with local anesthesia in a dental office.

• Initial Evaluation. X-rays and molds of your teeth and jaw may be taken during the initial evaluation. This helps in planning the entire procedure.
• Implant Placement. The first surgery involves placing the implant into the jawbone. The gum is then secured over the implant, covering it for several months.
• Abutment Placement. Some implants require a second surgery to place the abutment. If necessary, the surgeon will reopen the gum to expose the implant and attach the abutment. Otherwise, the abutment can be attached during the first surgery.
• Final Restoration. After the gums have healed, the final step is placing the artificial tooth or teeth. It’ll be attached to the implant or the abutment.

The recovery after getting dental implants can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure.

Maintaining Your Dental Implants

Even though implants don't develop cavities, they still need the same attention as natural teeth. This involves practicing proper oral hygiene, brushing and flossing, and routine dental examinations.

Implants are prone to problems, such as infection, in cases where they're not cared for. It helps to refrain from habits like tooth grinding or chewing hard objects that could put too much strain on the implant.

Although the process may take a while, the results can be life-changing. Dental implants can improve your smile and reclaim your freedom to eat and speak.

Get in touch with us at Aqua Dental Center in Winnipeg Manitoba for more information on dental implants and other potential tooth replacement solutions. Whether you’re a new patient or a current one, our staff is pleased to help.