If you've had concerns about gaps in your smile, you've likely at some point read or heard something about dental implants. As procedures in the dental world go, implanting artificial teeth is pretty much the last option before your doctor has to give up and fit you for dentures or partials. Let's take a look at what these appliances are and whether you might be a candidate for dental implant services.
Down to the Bone
Between your teeth and your jaw, there is a layer of bone that serves to support your bite. Each tooth has its own little base of supporting bone, and this is the matrix that's used to install dental implants. A metal post is implanted into this bone matrix. The metal is porous, and that allows the bone to fuse with the post to provide a firm base for a prosthetic tooth that's then attached to it.
Who Does the Work?
In the past, these procedures were generally handled by oral surgeons. More dentists, however, are being trained in the implant process. You still can't assume your dentist will handle the job, and there's a good chance you will be referred to a surgeon for a consultation.
Candidates for Implants
Not everyone is going to be a good candidate for dental implants. For example, if you've had teeth missing for many years, the supporting bone can atrophy to the point that it isn't sufficient to support an implanted metal post. Likewise, your oral health must be fully under control. This means you must be free of signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and any other disorders, including issues arising from the use of tobacco or alcohol.
Options
The implant process is advanced enough in its current form that there are many ways to approach different problems patients have. Someone who is missing their back molars, for example, may be a candidate for what is called a dental implant bridge. This is a procedure where a single post is installed and a bridge is placed between a healthy tooth and the post. There are also options for people who've had extensive extractions. The all-on-four system, for example, utilizes four posts that are installed into either the upper or lower mouth after all the teeth have been removed. Two sets of arches, large dental appliances that replace all the existing teeth, are then mounted to the pairs of posts.
Share13 August 2019
Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.