The parts of the mouth are designed to work together as a unit creating a healthy smile. Losing a tooth disrupts the natural balance. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. This restores the balance keeping the mouth healthy. Located in Scottsdale, AZ, Dr. Rogel Carlos and the team at AZ Dental Wellness offer dental implants as permanent replacement options.
The purpose of dental implants
The loss of even a single tooth can cause the adjacent teeth to shift. Your bite changes, altering the way you eat and speak. The bone is affected and may begin to deteriorate without a tooth root in place. Bacteria and food particles can hide in the new nooks and crannies. The function and appearance of your smile begin to change. Your overall oral health is impacted by tooth loss.
A dental implant is a small cylinder that replaces a missing tooth root. The implant is precisely positioned in place of the lost tooth root. The area is given time to heal. The bone and tissues fuse around the implant securing the restoration as part of the mouth. This creates the foundation for a sturdy, long-lasting restoration. An abutment attaches a ceramic crown to the implant, completing the process.
Our teeth have crowns and roots. The crown is the visible part and is often what people think of when a tooth is lost. Although the root sits below the gum line, it has a vital role in maintaining the bone health. A dental implant and crown mimic the natural structure of the tooth. The implant itself takes the place of the tooth root. It stimulates the jawbone. The abutment attaches to the implant above the gums and then secures a crown or other dental restoration.
The implant, abutment, and crown combination look and function as a natural tooth. The completed restoration process creates a sturdy, secure tooth replacement that is capable of withstanding the normal pressures of biting and chewing. Eating and speaking can return to normal. Aesthetically speaking, the smile is restored. Patients benefit by having a completed smile and a boost in their confidence levels. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Compared to other dental restorations, implants are more permanent solutions to replace missing teeth. Dentures are not as secure and may move about in the mouth. Bridges put pressure on the adjacent teeth and those teeth can decay. Implants are stable, do not decay, and do not stress the surrounding teeth.
BEFORE & AFTER RESULTS
Caring for your implant
Implants are successful, long-lasting restorations. The abutment and crown are more susceptible to damage than the actual implant is. The crown may wear down over time and need to be replaced. Good dental care can prolong the life of the crown. Regular oral hygiene rules apply. Routine dental exams should occur twice per year.
Good oral health habits can help prevent the buildup of bacteria. Prior to and after your implant placement, a good oral hygiene regimen helps minimize the number of bacteria in the mouth. This reduces the possibility of infection and increases the likelihood of a successful implant procedure.
Immediately following your dental implant procedure, swelling and discomfort are common. Any discomfort may be managed with ice or cold packs and over-the-counter painkillers. The inside of the mouth may be tender. Your dental team will give you instructions on how to care for your implant and the treatment area. Follow your dentist’s instructions on how to gently cleanse the site.
As your mouth heals, there are steps you can take to care for the restoration to ensure its longevity. Follow good oral health habits to maintain the health of your mouth. General guidelines for care may include:
- Avoid abrasive oral care products that may damage the implant
- Use a toothpaste with low fluoride
- Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss with dental floss designed for implants
- Use an oral irrigator
With proper oral care, implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option. How long the implant lasts will depend on an individual’s lifestyle and hygiene. Implants have a high success rate. They rarely fail due to rejection or functionality issues
If you are interested in dental implants, contact Dr. Rogel Carlos and the team at AZ Dental Wellness today for an appointment. Call (480) 747-1352.
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