As a result of different causes, dentists can recommend the extraction of severely damaged teeth that are beyond repair. However, missing teeth leave gaps in your mouth which can ultimately affect your oral health as well as your smile. Such a situation can be frustrating to many people.
There are however a few options that are designed to deal with the problem of missing teeth such as dentures. Among various tooth replacement options available, dental implants are gaining significant popularity since they are long-lasting and the most permanent solution out there. As such, dental implants in Saskatoon offer many advantages to patients that you should also know.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a post that is attached to your jaw and it fuses with the jawbone. The post acts as a root that will support the artificial tooth that is placed on top to bridge the gap. The implant is permanent and the artificial tooth will also appear like other natural teeth. You can visit your nearest dental clinic for more information about this tooth replacement method.
Types of material for dental implants
The implant that is inserted into the jaw and post is made of titanium. Other dentists may use ceramic posts. Front artificial teeth or crowns are made of ceramic or porcelain which appears like natural teeth. Metal crowns can also be used for back molars since they are stronger than ceramics. The molars are concealed and they are also at risk of damage due to incessant chewing.
How long does the procedure take?
A dental implant procedure involves multiple steps which take several weeks. Your dentist in Saskatoon begins by establishing your suitability for the dental implant procedure. This is followed by the removal of the damaged tooth (if the tooth isn’t already missing) and then the placement of the implant. The jaw should be given about 6 to 12 weeks to heal before an implant is placed.
When the dentist is satisfied and the site has completely healed, he or she then attaches the new artificial tooth. You should also know that a dental implant is semi-permanent. The crown attached on top of the implant can last between 10 and 15 years.
Benefits of dental implants
There are many benefits that you can enjoy from receiving a dental implant which includes the following:
• Implants are fixed, so no need to worry about removing them unlike dentures
• No food restriction since implants perform like natural teeth
• Regular brushing of implants is sufficient to protect them
• Implants prevent other teeth from moving
Post dental implant surgery aftercare
Dental implants are performed under local anesthetic. There are aftercare steps that you should take as instructed by your dentist. If you feel some pain or discomfort after the procedure, you should take painkillers that you can obtain over the counter. You should brush and floss your teeth twice per day. It is also important to quit smoking before having an implant.
Is it possible to whiten dental implants?
After the dental implant process has been successfully performed, the dentist will attach an artificial tooth on top of the post that is the same colour as other natural teeth. It is not possible to whiten your artificial teeth. Note, you should undergo teeth whitening before you receive a dental implant. You can conduct research about dental implants in Saskatoon so that you are fully aware of what dental implants involve.
Conclusion
If you wish to obtain a dental implant, you should first consult your dentist in Saskatoon. He or she will let you know what the procedure entails, expectations from it and after-care.