Dental implants Ryde are an excellent method of replacing your missing teeth. Tooth loss occurs as a result of many different reasons at different stages of adulthood and dental implants can be used by patients of all ages to address their dental needs.
Tooth loss
Tooth loss can occur as a result of an accident or if you have sustained an injury to the mouth. This could be a sports injury, a physical altercation or being in a road traffic accident. It could be as a result of accidental damage, for example if you break a tooth whilst biting down on something hard. In this case dental implants are an excellent solution for you.
Tooth decay
More common causes of tooth loss include tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth decay begins with the demineralisation of the enamel. This causes small holes to form in the enamel through which acids can seep into the dentine, the middle layer of the tooth. As this becomes damaged, the decay reaches the dental pulp, the inner layer of the tooth which contains the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth healthy. When the decay reaches the pulp it causes infection, pain and swelling. It can lead to the formation of an abscess which can cause severe pain and fever and requires urgent attention as the infection can spread to your jaw and other areas of your head and neck. In most cases the dentist will carry out a tooth extraction. A tooth that has been taken out as a result of decay can also be replaced using dental implants.
Dental implant surgery
Firstly the area will need to be given time to heal. This usually takes about three months. Then you are ready for dental implant surgery. Your dentist will examine your jawbone and your gums to make sure there is sufficient space for the implant. They will make sure that your jawbone is healthy and strong and decide whether or not you need bone grafting before the surgery.
On the day of the surgery you may be given a local anaesthetic, be placed under conscious sedation or given a general anaesthetic depending on your individual circumstances. The surgery itself takes 1 to 2 hours according to how many implants you require to replace your missing teeth. The implant will be placed into your jawbone and your gum will be stitched over the implant to initiate the healing process. This process can take 3 to 6 months to complete during which time the implant will become firmly embedded into the jawbone. Your dentist will make sure that the process is coming along successfully by carrying out routine check-ups at regular intervals and once the healing process is complete the tooth can be replaced with a crown to restore the appearance and function of your mouth.
If you have been affected by tooth decay or you have been in an accident and lost a tooth then speak to your dentist and find out more about dental implants to restore your smile.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.