How Dental Implants Improve Oral Health

One of the most common questions I hear from my patients with missing or damaged teeth is how to preserve their oral health and recover their smile’s functionality and aesthetics. Fortunately, with advancements and modern technologies in dentistry, different options are available for replacing missing teeth. Among them, dental implants improve oral health by restoring the functions and appearance of your smile, offering exceptional durability, preventing bone loss, and enhancing overall oral health. In this article, we are going to take a deeper look at dental implants. If you are interested in this topic, keep reading!

How Dental Implants Maintain Healthy Gums

Individuals who have lost one or multiple teeth are more prone to gum shrinkage. This issue can expose their tooth roots and increase the risk of decay and tooth sensitivity. Dental implants are designed to help patients keep their gums in good shape. Moreover, patients with missing teeth may experience gum infections because gaps left by missing teeth can trap food and create a proper environment for bacteria growth. Dental implants act like real teeth and make cleaning much more manageable.

How Dental Implants Improve Speech and Self-Confidence

Many patients with missing teeth often face challenges while speaking. Missing teeth may cause problems with pronouncing certain words. Getting dental implants is a perfect way to restore speaking clarity in this situation. Additionally, missing teeth can also affect their self-image and confidence, making patients feel self-conscious about their smiles. Many patients tell us they avoid smiling and speaking in public because of missing teeth. We understand how difficult it can be. To solve this problem, dental implants offer a natural look to patients and help them to feel more satisfied with their smiles.

Are Dental Implants the Best Choice?

Patients with missing or damaged teeth often face various restorative options that make it difficult for them to decide which one to select. Dental implants are usually recommended due to their several benefits, including durability, natural appearance, and long lifespan. However, if you are considering getting a restorative option to improve your oral health, you should weigh the pros and cons of each option to decide better. Here, we are going to compare them to facilitate the decision-making procedure for you:

Dental Implants Vs. Dentures

Here is a comparison between dental implants and dentures:

• Structure: Dental implants are titanium posts that are placed in the jawbone during surgery, while dentures are prosthetic teeth that rest on the gums.
• Stability: This restorative option offers perfect stability and functions like your real teeth. On the other hand, dentures might cause discomfort, especially during eating or speaking, because they can move or slip.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of dental implants is typically longer than other restorative options. They last more than twenty years under proper care, while dentures usually last 5 to 10 years.

Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridges

Let’s take a closer look at the differences between dental implants and dental bridges:

• Structure and Placement: Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone during surgery. Dental bridges are anchored by adjacent teeth and don’t need surgery.
• Stability: We usually recommend dental implants for individuals looking for stability. The stability of bridges depends on adjacent teeth. However, dental bridges are not as secure as implants.
• Lifespan: Implants have a longer lifespan than dental bridges. Bridges typically last 5 to 15 years.

What You Will Experience During Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant placement is a multi-step process. We typically explain each step to our patients, helping them experience a more informed, relaxing, and stress-free treatment. The process includes:

• Consultation and Assessment: Your dentist evaluates your oral health during the visit to ensure and determine whether you are a good candidate for implants. X-rays are also necessary for an accurate diagnosis. 
• Tooth Removal(if required): Tooth extraction is needed for patients with a severely damaged, decayed, or broken tooth. After the healing process, the dentist can prepare the treatment area for the implant. 
• Placement: After applying local anesthesia, a titanium post will be inserted into your jawbone during surgery. For cases with dental anxiety, sedation might be used.
• Osseointegration: After placement, it takes two to six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This stage is known as Osseointegration.
• Placing the Abutment: After osseointegration, you should book an appointment with your dentist to get the abutment(connector). The abutment will be attached to the titanium post and prepare the dental implant for the crown.
• Placement of the Crown: After all the mentioned steps, the final crown will be attached to the abutment. The crowns are made in the laboratory to match your natural teeth.

Dentist’s Note: “Getting dental implants is a step-by-step process that ensures long-term success. Each stage, from consultation to crown placement, is carefully planned for stability and healing. With modern techniques, discomfort is minimal. Proper aftercare, like good oral hygiene and follow-ups, is key to maintaining a healthy, lasting smile.”

Hans’ Experience at Woodbridge Smile Centre:
“I was nervous about getting a dental implant, but the team at Woodbridge Smile Centre made everything easy. The procedure was smoother than I expected, and they took great care of me. Healing took some time, but now my implant feels just like a real tooth. I can finally eat and smile with confidence again!”

The Best Aftercare Practices

If you are considering getting dental implants, you should be aware that following the aftercare instructions has a major impact on the recovery and effectiveness of the treatment. Based on the article in Medical News Today, we have answered how to take care of dental implants:

• Consume soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, and smoothies, at least for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky snacks to prevent damage.
• The treated area and other teeth must be cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria growth and plaque buildup. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush your teeth gently with fluoride toothpaste.
• Take regular examinations seriously. During the checkup, your dentist can assess the situation of your dental implant and evaluate your oral condition.
• Avoid smoking and using tobacco. Smoking causes plaque buildup and increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Your dentist might prescribe some medication for pain management after dental implants. You should take them to experience a more comfortable and pain-free recovery.

If you are looking for a perfect, durable, and natural option to achieve a healthier and more confident smile, we are here at Woodbridge Smile Centre, offering premium dental implants at the most affordable cost. We have gathered skilled and experienced dental professionals to guarantee your smile for years.

FAQs About Dental Implants