Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implant surgery is one of the surest ways of restoring your perfect smile after an accident or just after the natural loss of teeth. However, most people who need it tend to be hesitant because they never know the outcome. You shouldn't worry about the outcome because, unlike dentures, dental implants have a more predictable outcome, especially if done with the right team. We recommend you schedule an appointment with a reputable Cosmetic Dentist Essex for assessment and to determine whether you are a candidate. You'll also need to trust your surgeon so that he/she can do a perfect job on your dental formula.While there might be several options for teeth replacement, dental implants remain the best, and that is what most cosmetic surgeons vouch for if you want something long-lasting and permanent. Research and anecdotal accounts of candidates indicate that other methods such as dentures can't stop and prevent bone loss; hence they are prone to falling and slipping. Moreover, other methods can also frustrate you, especially when they compound your inability to chew properly and limit you from having free conversations.

For beginners, there is still so much to learn about, which include but not limited to, the following:

·   What are dental implants?Dental implants, just like the name suggests, are replacement teeth that mimic original teeth in many aspects ranging from looks to functions. The doctor can either implant a fixed or removable implant depending on your underlying health conditions and preferences. Dental implants are mounted through a surgical procedure that may take between two and three hours, but you'll need up to six months to fully heal. Titanium metal is used in the process because it can perfectly merge with the surrounding bone tissue without any health complications. Titanium forms a protective layer of titanium dioxide to prevent abrasion or reaction to water and food chemicals.Dental implants are by far the best alternative for people who don't have underlying roots of building dentures and often fit well than dental bridges.·   Who is the right candidate?Dental implants are ideal and applicable to any individual with severe teeth loss, tooth decay, or even broken teeth. The best thing about technology and modern labs is that patients with underlying medical conditions and insufficient bone structures can also benefit from implants, unlike before. Dental implant technology is gaining popularity in the mainstream, and you shouldn't be afraid to look for that perfect look. After all, you only get one life to explore your insecurities. Why don't you give it a shot?·   How do you find the right clinic?Finding the right clinic must be a priority because the overall success of the procedure will depend on the type of clinic and surgeon you choose. The best way of landing the right clinic is through referrals and online reviews. Positive online reviews are like personal recommendations and will often point you in the right direction.·   What are the different types of dental implant materials?There are two main types of dental implant materials: titanium and zirconia, but the former is more prevalent since the latter was invented recently. Titanium is made of metal and started to be used as early as 1950. Most surgeons prefer titanium because it is generally unreactive to water and chemicals and has a permanent high affinity for jaw bones and muscles. Zirconia, on the other hand, was first invented in the 1990s and is believed to be the future of dental implant materials though it isn't widely used. However, the first full Zirconia implant wasn't witnessed until in 2003. The common thing that makes both materials viable is their biocompatibility, meaning that they closely match the human body and fuse with bones.·   How long does the procedure take?Dental implant procedures occur in three main stages, but the last one, the actual treatment takes up to three hours. The first stage involves visiting the surgeon for a thorough analysis and examination, which may include dental X-rays and 3D images. Remember, at no point will the doctor allow any error because the procedure takes longer to heal. Most candidates start feeding on light and soft meals three months into healing, but it isn't until six months that you can experience full healing. In the first session, the doctor will also examine your jaw to determine whether they are strong enough to hold the implants.The second phase involves digging on your medical history to determine whether antibiotics should be administered before surgery to prevent any medical infection. Heart conditions and gum disease may require that candidates be subjected to other treatments before the actual implantation.The last stage involves a tailored treatment plan, and the actual surgery based on the number of teeth needed, the condition of the remaining teeth and the state of the jaw bone. You'll not feel any pain during the process as your doctor will likely sedate you or administer general anesthesia to make the place numb. After the dental implant placement, you'll heal then go back for an abutment and artificial teeth placements.·   Can implants be whitened?Lastly, you might also be interested in knowing whether your implants can be whitened since they depict real, natural teeth. Well, the truth is that it is impossible. If you want to have white teeth, we recommend whitening the remaining ones before going for an implant. The surgeon will craft implants that resemble your current teeth in all aspects, for comfort and uniformity. In other words, you have the power to choose how you want your implants to appear. It is also important to note that with the right procedure and proper after-care, an implant should last as long as you live. However, a reliable one shouldn't last less than 20 years.Don't hesitate to get a dental implant if you want to have your smile back. As you've seen, they are permanent and reliable. Don't you want to eat and speak normally like other people? Well, make the right call, and you'll not regret even a single bit about it.