Dental implants are a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown or bridge. The implant is a titanium post that is positioned into the jawbone, just beneath the gum line. The implant will allow your dentist to mount replacement teeth which will help to improve your oral health.
For successful implants, your gums and bone should be healthy and adequate enough to support the implants. For example, if the bone is too soft or there is bone loss, the bone will not be able to support the implant, and a bone graft will be required.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal Implants are implants that are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and after placement, a second surgery will be needed to connect a post to the original implant. Then the artificial teeth can be attached to this post individually or can be placed on a bridge.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal Implants have a metal frame that is then fitted onto the jawbone below the gum tissue. The frame will become part of the jaw as the gums begin to heal and then posts are attached to this metal frame, and then the artificial teeth can be mounted to the posts that are protruding from the gums.
Implant Care
Practicing good hygiene is critical when it comes to the care and maintenance of your dental implants. Good hygiene includes regular cleanings, brushing and flossing twice a day. To get in between the artificial teeth and clean the implant, an interdental brush can be used to get in and clean the harder to reach areas that around the implant.
If you are a smoker, it is highly recommended that you quit because smoking can further weaken the structure of the bone and can lead to failure of the new implants.
If you want your implants to last, then you need to be sure to follow good oral hygiene, continue to visit the dentist regularly for cleaning and checkups and keep your mouth clean.
The dental implants will award you with a stronger, durable, and more permanent solution to help restore your smile and provide you with that boost of confidence you need.
