Ask an Implant Periodontist About Implants, Gum Tissue and Jawbone

Individuals who have lost a permanent tooth to injury or disease are typically looking for replacement options. Tooth replacement can restore confidence when smiling as well as bring function back to the mouth. An implant periodontist can talk to patients about dental implants and the gum and jawbone requirements for supporting this solution.

4 questions to ask about implants

In addition to being cosmetically damaging, missing teeth can harm the surrounding gum tissue and jawbone. Thus, replacing missing teeth is important for maintaining normal function. Here are some questions to ask a dental professional about this procedure.

1. What is an implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, often called a post, that is made out of metal such as titanium. The post is surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone, and then a bridge or replacement tooth is attached. The most common type of implant is called endosteal and it is located in the bone. Another less common type, subperiosteal, is placed on the bone.

2. How does the condition of the gum tissue and jawbone affect implant candidacy?

Several factors influence whether an implant is an option for a patient. First, candidates should have healthy gum tissue to support a successful implant. Any form of gum disease results in weakening and dissolving of gum tissue and bone and are detrimental to an implant's stability.

The density of the jawbone is also a critical component because the metal post fuses with the bone. The jawbone needs to be fully developed as well as deep, wide, and strong enough to support the post. If a person has any type of disease that affects bone healing, it is critical to discuss this with an implant periodontist.

Finally, individuals should have good general and oral health. Some people with chronic illnesses may not be candidates because the body cannot support proper healing following surgery. Overall health is often a more important factor than age.

3. What is the procedure to place implants in the jawbone?

Placing an endosteal implant typically takes two or three phases. The first phase involves surgically inserting the metal post into the jawbone. The second phase is called osseointegration and involves the implant and jawbone fusing together.

Some patients can have a replacement tooth placed the same day of the surgery, while other patients need to wait several weeks or months for this fusion to complete. In this case, the final phase is placing the artificial tooth or teeth. A single lost tooth is replaced with a dental crown, while multiple teeth are replaced with dental bridges or dentures.

4. What are ways to keep the implant and gum tissue healthy?

To help implants last longer, dental experts recommend that patients practice good oral hygiene. Artificial teeth need to be taken care of just like natural teeth, and good brushing and flossing habits are essential. Individuals should visit a dentist regularly for checkups and regular cleaning. Lastly, avoid damaging habits such as smoking, chewing on ice and hard candy, and grinding teeth.

What other questions should I ask a periodontist?

Asking the right questions of your periodontist is essential for ensuring you make the right decision to meet your needs. Questions you might consider asking include learning about the success rate of implants in patients like you, the advantages and disadvantages of implants, and how they compare with other types of tooth replacement options. 

You may also want to know what happens during an implant evaluation, how long the entire process takes, and whether you may need bone grafting before your implant surgery. Think about all of the questions you have and make a list before contacting your periodontist. This way, you will not forget anything that is important to you. 

Remember, your periodontist works for you. If the person you chose does not answer your questions or seems impatient when you ask them, it may be a good idea to find another professional. After all, you want to feel safe and comfortable before, during, and after your implant procedure. 

Conclusion

Dental implants are an excellent way to restore your chewing and speaking functionality as well as to instill more confidence in the smile that you have. An individual who is considering dental implants should visit an implant periodontist to have their questions answered. A thorough exam and consultation allow a dental professional to determine if this procedure is right for the patient and create a plan to take the next steps toward the implant procedure.

Request an appointment here: https://corderoperiodontics.com or call Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA at (561) 763-9221 for an appointment in our Palm Beach Gardens office.

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