How Do Dental Implants Differ From Our Natural Teeth?
Anyone who has ever undergone treatment for dental implants in Richmond is usually impressed by their life-like nature. However despite the fact that they look the same, feel the same, and to a certain extent act the same, they are two very different entities. Let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart.
The main differences between our natural teeth and implant-based restorations are in the way that they attach themselves to the surrounding bone, their maintenance/repair, and their response to dental problems. Firstly their attachment….
Teeth attach themselves to the surrounding bone by means of a periodontal ligament. This ligament is made up of collagen fibres that attach themselves to both the bone and the tooth. Conversely dental implants use a titanium rod or screw which attaches directly into the bone. The idea being that over time the surrounding bone tissue fuses with the implant to create a solid base upon which to secure a crown, bridge, or to become part of a larger framework to support an entire row of dentures. The other difference is that the gum tissue also attaches itself to the root of the tooth using similar collagen fibres, however with a dental implant, that same gum tissue can only stick to the surface.
Response to dental problems
We all know that teeth can be susceptible to dental decay if not cared for properly and may even need root canal treatment whereas dental implants are made up of a titanium component which is both bio-compatible and non-corrosive so it doesn’t decay. That said, just as our natural teeth are under threat from gum (periodontal) disease, dental implants can also be subject to peri-implantitis. This is an inflammatory response to bacteria which has built up in and around the implant structure. This can result in the disintegration of the bone and eventually a failed implant.
Ongoing maintenance
For natural teeth ongoing maintenance is relatively straight forward consisting of regular and thorough brushing and flossing coupled with regular six monthly visits to the dentist. This should ensure that if any problems are found, they’re likely to be in the early stages and therefore easier to treat. Alternatively ongoing maintenance for a dental implant may be similar with patients continuing to practice high standards of oral hygiene, but in addition parts of the implant such as the porcelain crown can be replaced if chipped or cracked. This can be accomplished without affecting the implant in anyway. A dental hygienist will also use special instruments to clean the implants, but ones which won’t damage the titanium surface located beneath the gum line.
If you’d like to find out more about how a dental implant in Richmond can help you then visit our website at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk or alternatively contact us on 020 8876 5277 and book yourself a no obligation consultation. Here you can meet the team and get all your questions and concerns answered allowing you to make an informed decision about your dental health.