A conventional dental implant is usually known as a “Two Piece” implant which consists of the root component and the tooth component in separate bits. The root component ( implant ) is placed into the jaw bone and to it is connected the tooth component ( abutment ) usually using a tiny screw. The abutment is then prepared or customized to take the final crown. Conventional dental implants are the main type of implants and are an extremely effective long-term solution for missing teeth.
Implants are suitable for all types of situations, right from a one missing tooth to completely absent teeth. You can choose from any of the following options:
All-On-Four Implants
Patients who need to replace a full upper and/or lower set of teeth can now receive all-on-four implants. An oral surgeon will place 4 implants and then attach a full arch of teeth, giving the procedure its name.
Multiple Implants
Occasionally a patient is missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth, and a multiple implant is the best solution. Two fixtures are implanted and the crown is attached, leaving other natural teeth intact. The multiple implant is not for everyone, and even if a patient is only missing a few teeth, it may still be preferable to perform an all-on-four procedure.
Single Tooth Implants
If you have lost a single tooth due to an accident or from periodontal disease, that one tooth can be replaced using a dental implant. Your new tooth will look and function just like your other natural teeth.
- Conventional implants provide enough time for bone to implant integration process (3-4 months) thus can provide the highest standard of treatment.
- Conventional implants provide an effective long-term solution for missing teeth restoring function to the mouth and creating a natural attractive smile.
- The implant tooth will look exactly like a natural tooth and the patient will be able to eat drink and speak without any worry as the root of the tooth is also replaced.
- Implants are created from titanium and there is no risk of irritation to the gums or interference with neighboring teeth.
- Conventional dental implants also prevent bone degeneration which can often occur after tooth loss or when a person wears a denture for a number of years.
In total 2 trips are needed over about 4-6 months. The first trip usually requires about 3-5 days and the second trip usually requires about a full week. This type of implants are performed less frequently in most modern dental clinics as the amount of time needed to complete treatment is the greatest.
This is how they are done:
Step 1: Extraction of the tooth, if required, is performed and the implant is placed all in one visit. Sometimes artificial powdered bone material is placed into the empty extraction site to ensure there is enough bone to support the implant. This is called a minor bone graft or a socket graft. If there is not enough bone in the upper jaw molar or premolar implant to be placed bone material is placed in the extraction site and the sinus membrane moved upwards. This is called a sinus lift. In most cases extractions, placement of implants and a socket graft or sinus lift can be done in one appointment. If major bone grafts (block grafts ) are required it can entail an extra trip before the implants can be placed. This can be determined by looking at a panoramic x-ray or CT scan. After the implant is screwed into the jaw bone, the gums are then sealed over the implant. It then takes about 3-6 months for the implant to osseointegrate with your jaw bone before it is stable enough to support the abutment and crown. The implant placement can take place in just one appointment but an initial consultation and diagnosis visit follow up for suture removal and post operative check-up visits are also required.
Step 2: After the implants are stable you would return to have the abutment and crown fitted. During this visit the gums are opened up the abutments are attached to the implants and then impressions are taken of the abutments and surrounding teeth in order to send off the dental laboratory where the crowns are crafted. It is important that good impression are taken so that when the crowns are fitted they fit properly align and match the bite of your other teeth and have a proper minimal margin at the gum line for best appearance. It takes a few days for the lab to make the crowns and the whole process usually takes about 3 appointments over the course of a full week.
Why should I visit a dentist on regular periods?
With today’s busy life not many people are able to visit the dentist regularly. They only pay a visit when the situation gets grave. This is considered as “crisis treatment” versus “preventive treatment.” While the patients believe that they are saving money, but they end up spending more money due to the gravity of the problem. This is because various dental issues do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced phases of the disease process, like tooth decay. It is not new to see a patient with a huge cavity who hasn’t felt anything. Thus to prevent major challenging issues, it is advised to visit a dentist at regular periods.
Various preventive measures are recommended by the professionals at The Dental Cure in order to allow the patients to lead a happy life with a smile on their faces. One of the preventive measures includes utilization of fluoride which helps in the prevention of tooth decay.
Why should I floss, isn't brushing enough?
Flossing reduces the number of bacteria in your mouth. There are millions of these microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can’t get to. That’s the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually it hardens into tartar. Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist can remove tartar.
Ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment.
How can I get my kids to brush their teeth?
Make it fun! If you are enthusiastic about brushing your teeth, your children will also be enthusiastic. Children want to do the things their parents do. If your children see you brushing your teeth and displaying good dental habits, they will follow. Ask the dentist for other creative ways to get children to brush their teeth.
Getting your children to brush starts with taking them to the dentist at an early age. All children should be seen by their first birthday or 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth
How can I prevent cavities?
Always spend two to three minutes brushing your teeth. It takes that long to get rid of the bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. Do not brush too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque. Floss at least once a day. Flossing is the only way to get bacteria from between your teeth.
Watch the sugar you eat. There is sugar in candy, fruits, crackers and chips. These are the foods that the bacteria in your mouth like best. Be mindful of foods like raisins and peanut butter that stick to your teeth. They can provide a constant supply for the bacteria eating into your teeth. Try to minimize the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and brush your teeth afterwards.
If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water – which can help to remove food from your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Chewing demodulates the flow of your saliva which acts as a natural plaque-fighting substance. And do not forget your regular dental visits. Good dental habits will go a long way toward a no-cavity visit.
Why does the dentist take X-rays?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
- small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
- infections in the bone
- periodontal (gum) disease
- abscesses or cysts
- developmental abnormalities
- some types of tumors
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. X-rays can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, X-rays may even help save your life. Dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present in development. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.
What are the dangers of oral piercings?
The American Dental Association recognizes that piercing is a widely accepted form of self-expression, and that includes piercings in the mouth. However, the potential problems from piercings are numerous. Some symptoms after a piercing include pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth, tooth loss, and an increased flow of saliva, none of which are particularly pleasant. Tongue piercing can also cause excessive bleeding. If you’re thinking of placing a piercing in or around your mouth, talk to your dentist first. If you already have piercings and are having problems, see your dentist right away.
I knocked out a tooth, can it be saved?
Oral injuries are often painful, and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. If you have knocked out a tooth, these tips may be able to save it:
- Rinse, do not scrub, the tooth to remove dirt or debris
- Place the clean tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum or under your tongue
- Do not attempt to replace the tooth into the socket as this could cause further damage
- Get to the dentist. Successful re-implantation is possible only when treatment is performed promptly
- If it is not possible to store the tooth in the mouth of the injured person, wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk.
I have dentures. Is it necessary for me to still see my dentist?
Visits to the dentist include more than just “checking teeth.” While patients who wear dentures no longer have to worry about dental decay, they may have concerns with ill fitting appliances or mouth sores to name a few. Annual visits to the dentist (or sooner if soreness is present) is recommended. During these visits, an oral cancer screening and head and neck exam will be performed as well as an evaluation of the fit or need for replacement of the existing appliances. Regular visits can help you to avoid more complicated problems down the road.