Cosmetic implants are artificial teeth that are fixed surgically into a patient’s jaw as a replacement tooth. They are permanent and stable, and they do not rely on the neighboring teeth for support. Because they feel and look like natural teeth, they are regarded as the perfect solution for loss of teeth. The implants are made from various types of ceramic and metallic materials that look like bones, but they are friendly to body organs and tissues. An Implant can be fixed directly into a jawbone, or a custom made metal framework can be prepared to fit directly into an existing bone.
How Implants work
Implants are strategically placed to support permanently cemented bridges, thus eliminating the need for a denture. Although the cost of fixing an implant is restrictive to most people, it is preferred by many patients because the implants and the bridges closely resemble real teeth.
Who should receive dental implants?
Before anyone can settle on the procedure, it is advisable first to consult a dentist for an advice. For an implant to stay where it was anchored, a person should posses good health.The success rates of the implants decrease tremendously to those who are suffering from diabetes, clenching, bruxism, and other systemic diseases. People who may also not fair well during the procedure are those who consume alcohol or smoke cigarettes.
What to expect during an implant
Surgery is done to attach the artificial root into the jaw bone. Anesthesia is used during the surgery, and the implant remains enclosed until the implant fuses with the bone. Later, the dentist uncovers the implant and then attaches an extension to the implant. The dentist finally makes an artificial tooth or crown that he attaches to the implant post.
Duration of the process
The entire process takes around nine months to complete. The time may vary from one patient to the other because different patients heal differently. To patients who respond well to treatment, the processes can take up to six months for the surgery to heal and two months to fit the replacement teeth. Those patients with good bone quality usually have a post placed on them and then a replacement teeth fixed in one appointment.
Success rate and care of the implants
The success rate of the implant is determined by the purpose of the teeth, its location in the mouth, and the general health of the patient. Most implants fail due to poor oral hygiene. It is advisable to floss and to brush the teeth around the fixtures at least twice a day. Dentists regularly provide patients with instructions on how to take care of the installations, so it is paramount for you to follow those directions. General cleaning of the gums at least four times a year is advisable to maintain a good health of your mouth.
If you are thinking about doing a dental implant, you should first consult a qualified and an experienced dentist near you for further directions on what best suits you.
