If you are missing one or more of your teeth, you already know how it can negatively affect your self-confidence and keep you from smiling in pictures, but did you know that missing teeth can harm your oral health?
When you have a gap in your smile, your remaining teeth can shift into the open space. This can cause bite issues. Also, you can lose essential bone density without your tooth’s root to stimulate your jawbone.
Dental implants are an effective tooth replacement option to restore your smile and oral health. So, what is the process for replacing your teeth with dental implants?
The Dental Implants Process in Fishers
At Dentistry of Fishers, we want you to understand your dental implants procedure so you know what to expect. Once we determine your oral health is good, we can form a treatment plan to replace your missing teeth. The number of dental implants we use will depend on how many teeth you’re missing.
Here are the steps of the dental implants process:
1. Implant placement – We surgically place a titanium post into your jaw. This post will serve as the tooth’s root and support your prosthetic tooth.
It will take several months for your mouth to heal after the implant placement; during that time, osseointegration occurs. This is the process of your jawbone integrating with the dental implant.
2. Abutment placement – Once your implant has become part of your jawbone, the next step involves placing a connector onto your implant. Known as an abutment, this connector will serve as a way to attach your prosthetic tooth to your dental implant.
3. Dental crown placement – The final step for a single dental implant is to secure a dental crown to the abutment. However, if you are missing several teeth, we can attach a dental bridge; if you are missing all of your teeth, we can attach a denture.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
The first step to finding out if you’re a candidate for dental implants in Fishers, IN, is to schedule a consultation with our dental team. We can discuss your implant options and help you form a treatment plan.
Generally, if you’re an adult and meet the following criteria, you are a candidate for dental implants:
- Missing teeth — Dental implants are a good option for anyone with one or more missing teeth. Also, if you have a bridge that needs to be replaced or your dentures move around in your mouth when you try to eat or speak, you may want to consider an implant procedure.
- Good oral health — You can’t have tooth decay or gum disease before undergoing the dental implant procedure. You may need periodontal treatment or tooth-colored fillings before we agree to place implants.
- Sufficient bone density — Your jawbone must be strong enough to support the implant, so if you don’t have adequate bone density, you may need to undergo a bone graft before your implant procedure.
- Good overall health — It’s important to be healthy and strong enough to heal properly after implant surgery.
Dental Implant Maintenance
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth; they can last a lifetime with proper care. To avoid any issues with your dental implants and increase their longevity, you should care for them by following these guidelines:
- Brushing — Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for implants. Brush for two minutes each time, brushing all areas of your mouth.
- Flossing — It’s essential to floss each day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your implants. For the best results, use either a floss threader or dental floss designed for dental implants.
- Rinsing — After each meal, rinse your mouth to remove bacteria and food particles between your teeth. This will keep plaque and tartar to a minimum. Also, use antibacterial mouthwash each day to keep your mouth clean.
- Visiting your dentist — Be sure to visit our dental office regularly for routine exams and cleanings. During your appointment, we can check for any issues with your implants and remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Would You Like More Information about Dental Implants in Fishers, IN?
If you want to learn more about how dental implants can help you regain your smile and oral health, we are ready to take your call! At Dentistry of Fishers, we want you to love your smile again, so contact us at (317) 773-1618 to schedule a consultation or appointment.