If you have lost a tooth to decay illness or injury, then you may be looking for a way to restore it without the hassle of having to purchase denture glue. Dental implants Navan offer an excellent way for patients who have lost teeth to regain their smiles and the functionality of their teeth.
What are oral implants?
Oral implants are a form of cosmetic and restorative dental care that allows you to fill a gap left by a single tooth, multiple teeth or an entire set of teeth, using a simple and safe method.
The implant itself physically resembles a typical household screw; it is made from titanium and is affixed to the jaw during surgery. More recent advancements in the field of oral implants have allowed dental teams to expand on the types of oral implants available, but when you approach most dental teams to have this procedure performed, an endosteal implant will be the first choice.
The implant is placed into the jaw, and over 4-9 months, it fuses with the surrounding bone. The titanium itself is biologically inert, so it is unlikely you will experience any allergic reaction or your body will reject it.
The fitting
Many patients have concerns that the fitting of an oral implant will be uncomfortable.
Your dentist will ensure that the area is numbed before beginning the procedure and will have taken x-rays so that they can determine exactly where incisions need to be made and where the implants need to be placed.
If you have lost the tooth many years ago, an incision will need to be made into the gum, and a small hole will be drilled into the jawbone. If your tooth was lost more recently, your dentist may use the already vacant socket to place the implant.
The process can take up to 2 hours to fit a single implant, and so, if you are having multiple implants fitted, the procedure may be spread over several weeks. Once the implant is placed, your dentist will sew the gum together, and surgery is complete.
Aftercare
It is unlikely that an infection will occur, but it is a risk as it is with all types of surgery.
There are ways in which you can prevent an infection from occurring with your newly fitted oral implant. You should refrain from smoking or drinking excessive quantities of alcohol, and you should aim to keep the area clear using a saltwater solution until your dentist determines that it is safe to use a toothbrush.
Signs of infection around an oral implant include unusual swelling, discolouration to the site, the presence of pus, discomfort and the implant appearing to wobble. If you notice any of these signs, you must contact your dental team as soon as possible to have the site assessed.
Infections with oral implants can be detrimental and cause the bone surrounding the implant to become damaged.
Provided that aftercare goes smoothly and the implant fuses with your jaw, you can expect your oral implants to last for 20 years or more. So, it is well worth keeping your implants healthy!