Do Dental Implants Require Special Attention?
Dental implants are commonly regarded as the most lifelike restorative treatment for replacing missing, damaged, and badly decayed teeth. However, for anyone considering a dental implant in Richmond one of the questions that always pops up is whether dental implants require special attention.
The good news is that dental implants can be cared for in exactly the same way as biological teeth, namely with daily brushing and flossing combined with regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments.
What are dental implants made from?
Dental implants are made up of 3 components: the titanium implant post, the abutment, and the prosthetic. Titanium is used in the manufacture of implants because it’s a material which is biocompatible which means that the body doesn’t reject it. During a surgical procedure the implant post is embedded into the jawbone and then left to heal. During this time, the surrounding bone and gum tissue bonds with the implant post by integrating with it, so that it becomes stable and strong enough to support a prosthetic. This can take anywhere from 3-6 months to happen.
Following surgery
In the first couple of weeks following surgery it’s important to follow the surgeon’s post operative instructions which will include changing your diet to one which contains mostly soft foods, such as eggs, soups, porridge, and pasta. It’s vital that no pressure is put on the implant site which could dislodge the implant post. After a few weeks harder foods can be gradually introduced but it’s still a good idea to eat on the opposite side of the mouth, if possible.
Maintaining oral hygiene
Although dental implants can’t decay since they’re made from metal, they are vulnerable to infection and gum disease which can weaken the bone around them, causing the implant to fail. For this reason, it’s imperative that patient’s maintain a high level of oral hygiene for ever, because an implant can fail at any time, and not just in the immediate weeks after surgery.
Once an implant is stable then your smile is restored by cementing a custom made dental crown into position, or in the case of a series of missing teeth, a bridge may be used. Dental implants can even be used to secure full or partial dentures into position.
Dental implants in Richmond don’t just replace a missing tooth or teeth. They maintain the remaining teeth by improving a patient’s bite and functionality. They also happen to look extremely attractive and restore a person’s self esteem and confidence. If you’d like to find out more about dental implants then why not book a free implant consultation with Sheen Dental. Simply call our friendly reception staff on 020 8876 5277 or contact us online at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk. We look forward to meeting you.