dental implants in woodstock, ga

A dental implant is a long-term alternative for a missing tooth. Unlike dentures, which are artificial teeth affixed to a removable plate, implants are surgically affixed to the jawbone. The implants function as an anchor for an artificial tooth, and may be used in combination with bridges to replace multiple missing adjacent teeth. The dentist will position an implant on the teeth at either end of the opening and attach a bridge to both implants. The bridge serves as a noninvasive way to fill in the remaining missing teeth.

Complications Of Losing Teeth

Cosmetic: Losing a tooth can change your physical appearance in a major way. If a tooth is lost in the front of the mouth, the smile will be visibly different. If several of the front teeth are lacking, the lips lose their support and slump inward. The molars are meant to support the elevation of the face. Partial loss of the molars can lead to bite-collapse, causing the front teeth to be pushed forward.

Emotional: When a person loses a tooth it frequently hurts their self confidence, causing them to hide their teeth around other people. This can make it difficult to smile, laugh, or even speak in social situations. Some even become removed from others, and report depression-like conditions.

Oral Health: Losing a tooth might be uncomfortable and cause more than just cosmetic problems. Teeth depend on adjacent teeth for support and can become weaker when bordering teeth are lost. Losing a tooth could also lead to bone loss in the jaw over time. Dental implants stimulate the bone, causing it to stay healthy longer.

Types Of Dental Implants

There are two types of dental implants, known as endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. The dentist will help you determine which implants are recommended for you.

Endosteal Implants– Endosteal implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone. This is conducted over two operative procedures. The initial surgery positions the implant, and the second surgery is to attach a post to the implant. Once the surgery is finished, a crown is placed on the implant. If replacing a number of teeth, a bridge may be used between two implants.

Subperiosteal Implants– Subperiosteal implants are less invasive than endosteal implants. The dentist will surgically position a metal frame on the jawbone below the gum line. Once the gums are healed, the frame is fused to the jawbone. The posts that are affixed to the frame are exposed and crowns are fixed to the posts. Subperiosteal implants can also sustain bridges when replacing several teeth.

Caring For Dental Implants

Dental implants are an incredibly effective dental procedure when maintained properly. There are a number of steps you are able to take to ensure your implants last. To begin with, visit your dentist routinely. This is vital to your overall oral health, as well as preventative care. Seeing a little concern before it becomes larger is the key to preserving the integrity of the implants. Then, be sure you are observing excellent oral care in your home by brushing and flossing every day. Refrain from chewing on ice, hard candy, and other hard foods that might break your crowns. Finally, it is recommended that you quit smoking or using tobacco products, as this compromises the jaw bone.