If you have lost a tooth, it can most likely affect your confidence and take a toll on your mental health. Besides, statistics suggest that adults between 20 and 64 have an average of 25.5 remaining teeth. 

But don’t worry! Thanks to advanced oral technology, you have nothing to worry about with dental treatments. Dental implants are a remarkable innovation in the field of dentistry. They’re the best, most natural-looking replacement option for individuals with missing teeth. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about implants in dentistry, from their history and benefits to the procedure and aftercare.

But What Is A Dental Implant?

You can experience various complications after losing a tooth due to injury or disease. Complications like rapid bone loss, changes in chewing patterns, or defective speech can result in discomfort, which might be common after you lose a tooth. 

Replacing a lost tooth with an implant can significantly reduce the risks of such complications and improve your quality of life and health. Dental implants are oral appliances designed like artificial teeth and developed using biocompatible materials, typically titanium. 

These oral appliances are surgically implanted into the jawbone by your implant dentist in Kansas City, MO. They are a stable foundation for other oral appliances like bridges, dentures, and crowns. 

Structure Of A Dental Implant: What Makes It Reliable?

A dental implant for teeth typically comprises a body, an abutment, and a screw to fix the abutment to your jawbone. The implant’s body is surgically implanted in the jawbone to replace the tooth root. 

In the second stage of your procedure, the abutment is normally screwed to the implant body and extends through the gums into the mouth to hold the connected artificial teeth. 

There are mainly two types of implants for teeth:

Type	Structure
Endosteal implants (in the bone)	Small screw, cylinder, or blade  It goes into the jawbone and holds one or more replacement teeth
Subperiosteal implants (on the bone)	An implant that’s placed on the teeth The implant is positioned on or above the jawbone. Consider a subperiosteal implant if you can’t wear ordinary dentures and don’t have enough natural jawbone to support an endosteal implant.

So now that we have a clear idea about the structure of dental implants let’s look at the benefits of opting for the oral appliance in the following section. 

Benefits Of Opting For Dental Implants

Natural, Robust Tooth Replacement

Dental implants look and feel like real teeth and give a natural look so your smile appears natural. Additionally, these appliances are sturdy and can last long if you take good care of them.

Great For Oral Freedom

Implants help preserve your jawbone by providing support, unlike dentures, which can lead to bone loss. Besides, since dental implants don’t put you under many restrictions, you can enjoy your favorite food items without worrying about the implant coming loose.

Better Fix For Your Lifestyle

Implants stay in place, so there’s no need for adhesives or worry about them slipping out like with dentures. This way, they allow you to speak clearly without any speech issues that dentures might cause.

Easy Application

Unlike bridges, implants don’t require altering adjacent healthy teeth. These oral appliances can enhance your appearance and give you a confident smile through dental implant procedures. What’s more? You care for implants like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.

Recovery & Aftercare Of Dental Implants

1. Pain Management: While most dental implants don’t cause significant trouble after a successful application, some might prove otherwise. If you face unbearable pain, it’s advisable to subside the pain using over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the discomfort. Or, you could also consider visiting your specialist in dental implants in Kansas City.
2. Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection and ensure the implant’s long-term success. Therefore, ensure that you regularly follow strict oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly. 
3. Dietary Restrictions: You must have soft foods during the initial healing phase. Besides, it is also wise to make follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor the implantation dental’s progress.

To help you better understand, we’ve curated a list of before and after highlights following a successful dental implant treatment.

Before the Process	After the Process
Your overall health is crucial for deciding if the implant is right for you, how fast you’ll recover, and how long the implant will stay in your mouth.	You must follow the oral hygiene routine provided by your dentist, as regular cleansing of the teeth and implants is essential for long-term success.
Ask your dentist which type of dental implant they use, and remember this information.	Schedule regular visits with your dentist
Smoking can slow healing and make the implant less likely to work well over time. You might have to quit smoking for a speedy recovery.	If you feel discomfort with the implants, you must tell your dentist immediately.

Conclusion

Undergoing a dental implant is a big undertaking! Therefore, ensure you’re well-informed about the pros and cons and have an overview of the treatment before signing up. Besides, looking into your chosen clinic’s dental plan for a better financial cushion before treatment would also be helpful. 

Let’s Revamp Your Smile

Dental implants can be intimidating unless done by professionals. At the Dental Care Center of South Kansas City, we bring you professional dental implant treatment from experts with years of experience. Visit our clinic today!