You only have one set of adult teeth, and they need to last until you are 80, 90, or beyond. The actions you take towards your teeth today will either benefit you or harm you in the future. Of course, good dental care starts with seeing a dentist regularly. You should go in for cleanings and checkups, and any other time you think something might be amiss with your teeth. Education is important when it comes to any aspect of your health, so start reading the articles on this website to educate yourself about dentists and dental care. We promise that when you're 80 and you still have your teeth, you won't regret the time spent.
The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog
How To Have A Successful Dental Implant Journey
Sofia Curtis
Dental implants are devices made from body-safe materials, such as titanium and porcelain. They are designed to be a permanent solution to tooth loss. Dental implants aren't for everyone, but many people can benefit from these dental devices. People who are currently missing teeth and those who require scheduled dental extractions can consider dental implants as part of their oral treatment. Here are four steps that you can take for a successful dental implant journey:
1. Talk to your dentist about the possibility of dental implants.
The first step for anyone considering dental implants is to have a candid chat with your dentist. Your dentist is a valuable source of information about the procedure, including the pros and cons, as well as any common pitfalls you should be aware of. Your dentist is also the person best suited to let you know if dental implants are an option for you personally. Speaking to your personal dentist can be far more informative than researching implants on your own.
2. Carefully consider the risks and benefits.
Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. However, like with any surgery, it's important for patients to be aware of the potential risks as well as the benefits. People who receive dental implants should be aware of the small possibility of infection or dental implant rejection. Your dentist can help you figure out the best way to avoid these risks by keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
3. Choose the type of dental implant best for your mouth.
There are several types of dental implants available. Endosteal implants are the most common, but subperiosteal implants also exist. The difference between these two types of implants is whether they are placed above or inside your jawbone. Your personal health, bone structure, and risk factors, can determine the type of implant that your dentist recommends. Your dentist can also talk to you about supplementary procedures you can undergo to make yourself a better candidate for certain types of implants. For example, bone grafts can be used to build up your jawbone to make you a better candidate for endosteal implants.
4. Let your dentist know if something feels painful or abnormal during the healing process.
Most people heal from the dental implant process within a few months with few setbacks. However, you should keep in contact with your dentist, attend all your follow-up appointments, and let your dentist know if something feels unusual. Pain and looseness in your new dental implant can indicate an infection or possible rejection, which should be addressed as soon as possible to maximize your chances of keeping your implant.
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