Dental Implants: All You Need to Know

Dental implants are popular because they are a stable alternative to missing teeth. Studies show that up to 97% of people who have dental implants experience less stress and anxiety in their daily lives. That's great news for those who have been dreading the day when they would have to go without teeth. However, just because something is popular doesn't mean that it's easy to understand. That's where this guide comes in.

The Difference Between Tooth & Implants

Tooth and implants are not a single thing; they are two entirely different items. A tooth is the single largest organ in our bodies. It is attached to the jaw bone and serves as the anchor for all the other teeth in our mouth. On the other hand, an implant is a metal post surgically implanted into the jaw bone to serve as the basis for artificial teeth.

The best way to think of it is that a tooth is like a flagpole for all the other teeth in the mouth. It keeps them all straight and organized. Implant-supported teeth have a similar function, but they are designed to look more like their natural counterparts.

How They Work

Tooth and implant work together to provide support for the jaw bone and the overlying teeth. After the operation, the surgeon will insert the tooth into the bone and will use a special tool to lock it in place. They will also insert the implant into the jaw and will use an additional instrument to screw it in place. This process is called osseointegration. To keep things stable, the surgeon will apply a mixture of bone wax and metal powder to the site of the implant. Once this material has set, it will be virtually impossible for the tooth to come loose without completely destroying the jawbone.

The great thing about this two-step process is that it allows the surgeon to quickly and easily remove a tooth if it becomes infected or if it starts to interfere with the other teeth or the jaws in some other way.

All About Bites And How To Avoid Them

The most common question regarding dental implants is whether or not they can cause harm to humans through bites. Although there is no evidence to suggest that this is the case, it is always a good idea to ask the surgeon about how much pressure they would recommend putting on the device when bites occur. Some surgeons may advise you to avoid bites altogether while others may recommend you to push through it. It really depends on the individual situation and what is best for you as an individual.

There is no set answer to this question because every situation is a bit different and requires a bit of personal research. In some cases, avoiding bites can prevent serious infections in the long term. In other cases, it is better to endure the pain for a short while and then get treatment as soon as possible. As a general rule of thumb, try to avoid sharp objects coming in contact with your mouth as much as possible because they can easily puncture your lips, tongue, or gums. This would lead to serious infections. Keep your cell phone in the pouch of your purse or pocket when you go out. This will help avoid unexpected bites from behind. It's also a good idea to chew on sugar free gum or use an alcohol-free mouthwash after each meal to avoid any possible interactions between the chemicals in the mouth and the metal inside the implants or teeth.

Consider Your Body Language

It is also important to consider how you will act around the surgeon who is putting the implant in place. If you are anxious or nervous, you will start moving your mouth around more than usual which could lead to problems. Try to stay composed and quiet during the surgery. Keep your eyes open and watch what is happening so you can be sure that everything goes smoothly.

Make sure to leave room for the surgeon to work so they can get the job done quickly and correctly. It is also important to leave them enough room to put the implant in the right place. If this requires any adjustments, they will have to make them quickly so you don't feel any sting when they put it in place. This is why it is essential to be left alone during the surgery so you can stay relaxed.

Who Needs An Implant And When Do They Need It?
The great thing about dental implants is that they can be used by individuals of all ages to replace missing teeth. It doesn't matter how many teeth you have or how many you are missing, you can benefit from dental implants. If you are missing lots of teeth, it is advisable to have the implants as soon as possible even if it is not yet the right time for you to have them. This is because the sooner you get them, the sooner you can start fixing your mouth the right way.

As previously mentioned, the surgeon will use your tooth or flagpole to keep all the other teeth in your mouth in the right place. If you are missing a couple of teeth, this will help keep the others in line and prevent any complications from arising. This is also why it is best to have the implants before you lose any more teeth. On the other hand, if you have a full and healthy set of teeth already, you can wait until later to have implants. This is not a bad idea at all because you can still enjoy the benefits of better oral hygiene and the positive effect that it has on your overall health.

As you can see, there are numerous ways in which dental implants can improve your quality of life. Make sure to consult with your dentist to see what options are available to you.