An introduction to dental implants
High Dental Implants Melbourne is a commonly used term in today’s world. But what are tooth implants and what are the reasons for their popularity? In this article, we look at how dental implants have transformed the face of restorative dentistry, changing the lives and smiles of people everywhere.
What are implants at High Dental Implants Melbourne?
An implant is not a part of the tooth that is visible, but is a prosthesis that acts as a replacement tooth root to an artificial crown which is secured on top of the implant.
The prosthesis is a screw made from titanium that we insert into your jawbone. The bone and metal then bond together over a couple of months in a process called osseointegration. Osseointegration occurs when the body recognises the metal implant as part of its own tissue, and consequently allows the surrounding tissue to grow over and around it until it is fully embedded into the jaw.
How long will the process take?
A tooth implant is by no means a quick fix. At High Dental Implants Melbourne they can take anywhere between six weeks and six months, and that is providing no complications arise.
Complications arise when the person needing a new tooth does not have enough bone in the jaw for implantation to successfully take place. A bone graft might be deemed necessary, which can prolong the overall treatment time.
Do you need to have a healthy mouth for implants?
You must typically be treated for pre-existing dental problems before you can be declared fit enough for implants.
Gum disease is a threat to the survival of your prosthesis because it can cause bone loss, and having enough bone is a prerequisite for successful implantation.
Gingivitis is gum disease in its early stages. Symptoms typically indicative of gingivitis include bad breath, aggravated red gums and deep pockets that form around the teeth and gums. The good news is that the condition is reversible with a scaling and root planing.
In layman’s terms, scaling and root planing are a professional clean performed by our oral hygienist. The procedure removes built-up plaque and calcified tartar deposits that are causing your gums and your teeth harm.
Once these harmful substances are removed and your gums are fully healed, we can go ahead with inserting dental implants.
How long do teeth implants last?
Implants can last a lifetime if taken care of correctly, which entails routine cleaning, visits to the implant dentist, and watching your diet.
The routine clean includes brushing all sides of the artificial crown attached to the implant, gently and using short strokes. Be sure to remove food particles after you eat to prevent plaque build-up.
See our dentist every six months for your biannual checkup. Along with checking the general condition of your mouth, we will also ensure that the implant is still secure.
A vigorous cleaning routine is not the only way to keep your new tooth in good condition; we also advise that you follow a healthy diet with limited sugar intake. The germs found in plaque use sugar particles to create acid that aggravates and attacks the gums. The more sugar there is, the more acid is produced, and the more vulnerable your gums are to contracting gingivitis.
Choosing dental implants is a big decision. Come to us, High Dental Implants Melbourne for a consultation and to decide the most appropriate course of action for your needs.
All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.