Considering implants? Read on to learn more about implant dentistry procedures from an implant dentist. Implant dentistry involves the placement of dental implants into the jaw, followed by the attachment of abutments and a dental prosthesis (e.g., crown, bridge, or denture). This article highlights the role the jawbone plays in the dental implant process and what an implant dentist can do if there is not enough jawbone.
The jawbone plays an integral role in the strength of dental implants, so it is crucial for the jawbone to be as healthy as possible before (and after) the placement of dental implants. Otherwise, the risk of implant failure becomes much greater.
The jawbone is responsible for holding dental implants in place. If any bone loss occurs in the jaw, then there may not be enough to support dental implants long-term. On the other hand, when the jawbone is healthy and has plenty of bone tissue, then the implants are held strongly in place and can last for more than a decade in most cases when they are properly cared for.
The two main reasons bone loss in the jaw occurs are bone atrophy and periodontal disease. Bone atrophy can occur after one or more teeth are lost. The jawbone is responsible for holding teeth in the socket, and it loses this purpose when the teeth are lost, which can lead to atrophy. Periodontal (gum) disease can lead to bone loss while the patient still has their natural teeth. Specifically, bone loss can occur as a result of periodontitis, which is a more severe form of periodontal disease.
An implant dentist may recommend a bone graft procedure if there is not enough bone inside of the jaw due to atrophy or periodontal disease. A bone graft procedure is surgical, but the risks are minimal and most patients are able to make a prompt recovery. The procedure simply involves grafting bone material where the bone loss occurred to ensure adequate support for the implant(s).
You can protect your gum health as well as the health of your teeth and implant restorations in the same way as you would your natural teeth. Specifically, this should include a consistent oral care routine (brushing, mouthwash, and flossing), eating a low-sugar diet, avoiding tobacco products, and visiting the dentist for regular dental cleanings.
During a dental implant consultation visit, the dentist can assess the health of the patient’s jawbone and gums. This involves an oral examination and the use of dental x-rays. If there is bone loss inside of the jaw, then the x-rays can confirm the extent of the bone loss and determine if a bone graft procedure is necessary before the placement of dental implants.
Implant dentistry is one of the most popular ways of replacing one or more missing teeth. However, before deciding on dental implant restoration, it is important to understand what the process entails and how it compares to alternative treatment solutions that may be available to you.
The best way to learn this information specifically as it relates to your case is to schedule a consultation with an implant dentist. In general, patients who are willing and able to go through a longer treatment process that consists of one or more minor oral surgical procedures in order to achieve long-term tooth-replacement results prefer dental implants over alternative options such as a fixed dental bridge or removable dentures.
A consultation visit is simply a way to discuss your treatment goals with the implant dentist and establish a treatment plan to replace your missing or severely damaged teeth. There are usually no treatments performed on the first visit, and the visit only takes approximately an hour. The consultation is a great time for patients to ask any questions or express any of their concerns about the procedure.
You can find out more about implant dentistry during a consultation visit here at our dental practice. Contact our team today to schedule your first visit.
Request an appointment here: https://gallodental.com or call GDC Smiles at 7705045725 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Implant Dentist in Gainesville, GA.
Not every patient requires a bone graft procedure before tooth replacement from an implant dentist, but it may be necessary for certain situations. This review discusses the role of bone grafting in the Implant dentistry process and what to expect before, during, and after a bone graft procedure.A bone grafting procedure is needed when there…
Dental patients who are planning a visit to an implant dentist may be unfamiliar with the details regarding implants. It is crucial to learn as much information as possible before scheduling an appointment for this surgical procedure.A dental implant is a common permanent tooth replacement option that can be highly beneficial to a patient’s health…
Considering an implant dentistry procedure? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. With implant dentistry, replacing missing teeth has never been easier, and these restorations are generally indistinguishable from natural teeth. Dentists are often asked about how implant dentistry works. Due to the innovative structure of dental implant restorations, they are far…
Implant dentists restore the appearance, function, and oral health of patients' smiles by replacing missing teeth. What makes implant dentistry unique is the use of dental implants, which are essentially artificial tooth roots that hold replacement teeth securely in the proper permanent position.Many have heard of implant dentistry but are not entirely familiar with what…
Dental crowns reinforce a decayed or damaged tooth, restoring its function and beauty. These are just two of the many benefits of crowns. For instance, they also require minimal aftercare. If you are dealing with a broken or root canal-treated tooth, consider this popular dental restoration.Dental crowns can restore a variety of dental conditions. They…
One option for someone who is missing teeth is implant supported dentures. It is important to fill in gaps in the mouth; not doing so has a variety of unwanted consequences. In the short term, a missing tooth often leads to pain, as the nearby teeth will start to shift. In addition, these teeth are…