Tooth loss is often hard to cope with and can deliver a devastating blow to one’s self-confidence. It used to be that there were only two options for someone who had lost one or several teeth: put up with the situation and try to adapt or get treatment with dentures. Fortunately, there is a modern solution that comes with a range of benefits in the form of dental implants Clapham. This guide explores what implants are and how they work, as well as explaining how the patient can benefit from this treatment.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a very possibly permanent solution to the issue of missing teeth. When a person loses a tooth, they do not just lose the visible part, but the tooth root too. Implants are a direct replacement for the roots of the teeth that provide a base for replacement teeth.
They are made from titanium, which is a type of metal that is very adaptable and reliable. It has been used for many years as a means of supporting and correcting broken bones and missing teeth and is a trusted material that integrates very well with human tissues.
How does the process work?
When a patient and their dentist have decided that dental implants are a suitable option, the dentist will perform surgery to make space for and insert the new implants. There is no pain involved as they use a local anaesthetic to completely numb the mouth, so the patient does not feel anything during the surgery.
After the surgery, the patient then undergoes a healing period. This usually takes two or three weeks. Once the dentist is satisfied that healing is complete, they then apply abutments to the implants. These act as a base onto which the new artificial teeth can be securely positioned.
A long-lasting treatment
Many patients find that teeth replaced using dental implants last a lifetime. Once the treatment has been completed, if the patient takes good care of their oral health, then they do not usually need to attend any more dental appointments than the average patient. This contrasts with those who replace their missing teeth using dentures. These patients need to return to their dentist at regular intervals to get a new set fitted that accommodates the changing structure of the gums and jawbone.
Ideal for foodies
The patient who loves their food and enjoys eating a wide variety of meals and snacks usually reaps the benefits of having their teeth replaced with implants. They do not need to worry about avoiding foods that are especially hard or chewy and can rely on their new teeth staying in place just as much as they would with natural teeth.
Maintain facial structure
If missing teeth are not replaced with implants, then the spaces in the gums where the teeth used to reside will shrink over time. This can significantly alter the structure of the face, causing a shrunken look which can make people look much older than they are. Dental implants help to maintain the original facial structure and can help people to look younger for longer.
