Adults who suffer from tooth loss are often desperate for a way to restore the aesthetic of the teeth that have been lost, along with their function.
In dental clinics across the UK, there is now the option for dental patients to undertake dental implants Nottingham to restore the appearance of their missing teeth and the bite strength that has been lost. This can be done via surgery, which may be intimidating to many patients who are looking to have oral implants fitted; however, this short article will provide some insight into what oral implants are and how to care for them effectively to promote their longevity.
What are oral implants?
Oral implants are small titanium posts that can be fitted to the jaw via surgery. When it is placed into the bone, the titanium fuses with it over roughly 4 to 12 months, creating a secure and stable anchoring point for prosthetic teeth to be attached.
Oral implants are commonly performed as part of restorative dental care but obviously have advantages to the cosmetic aspect of dentistry as well as that of preventive dental care. Oral implants can prevent secondary complications from occurring with oral health.
Advantages of having oral implants
There are many advantages of having oral implants fitted, which include
- Better aesthetic outcomes
- Improved bite grip and chewing strength
- Easy maintenance
- Prevention of secondary dental complications such as orthodontic issues and dental decay
Fitting of oral implants
The fitting of implants may sound quite intimidating, but it is rather straightforward. Your dental team will choose the location of the implants to be fitted and then numb the area. Making some incisions into the gum line, the jaw will then be exposed, and a hole will be drilled. The implant will then be fitted and held in place with the surrounding gum, which will be sewn back together. You will then need to wait for about 4 to 12 months for the implant to fuse, which will be confirmed with an x-ray.
Caring for oral implants
The reason oral implants are so popular is that they are exceedingly easy to care for. All you need to do to maintain them is brush them twice a day, floss between them and visit your dental team twice a year to prevent gum disease from forming, which can otherwise cause all implants to fall out.
Potential complications
There are a few complications associated with having implants fitted. For some patients, the implant may not have successfully fused to the jaw bone, which will require the implant to be removed and another restorative procedure to be considered. In some instances, the implant may have fused to the jaw, but due to gum disease or trauma, it may be lost and would then need to be replaced.
If you have had implants fitted and feel that they are coming loose or are wobbling, you will need to see your dental team to have the underlying cause assessed and treated promptly and prevent the entire implant from needing to be removed.
