How to Take Good Care of Your Dental Implants

People who have certain types of periodontal diseases, and those who have completely lost some of their teeth can benefit from having a dental implant procedure. This is an excellent way to restore the beauty of one’s smile, and restore full function. Nevertheless, there are certain things that people who have implants need to know in properly caring for their new teeth.

In the first few days after the surgery, the area around your implants should be considered a no-brush zone, since your wound isn't fully healed yet during this period. You can ask your dental professional to prescribe a mouth wash for you to use during these critical days.

After a week or so, you can now brush your teeth as you would the rest of your chompers. Remember to use a special brush for sensitive teeth, though. You might want one with a bent or bendable handle so you can reach behind the abutments. Floss thoroughly after every meal.

Keep talking to your dentist after the surgery to tell him how your implants are doing. If you feel any strange pain sensation around the surgery in the first few weeks, notify him immediately. You may need to get routine x-rays for maintenance, too.

Even though your implant is meant to restore your bite to normal more than crowns and bridges ever could, be careful about biting on hard food items, chewing on ice, or eating very sticky food. You should also know that smoking and coffee may easily stain your new implants rather easily. 

Your Initial Consultation with an Oral Surgeon

Regular dental checkups are essential. It is important to visit your dentist every three to six months to identify any problems you might not see or feel. If your dentist does see a major problem, he may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for procedures or treatments like dental implants, jaw surgery, or wisdom teeth extraction. When this happens, know that your initial consultation with the surgeon will be critical to the success of your surgical procedure.

The initial consultation is your chance to learn about the details of the procedure so that you'll be informed and in control every step of the way. It will also be an opportunity for the surgeon to evaluate your condition and identify the safest and most effective approach to treatment. To assess risks and complications that may arise from the procedure, expect the surgeon to ask about your current state of health, any medications you are taking, details about your dental condition, and any allergies you may have.

The surgeon may also obtain an X-ray or CT scan of your mouth and teeth. After his evaluation, you will learn how the procedure will be performed, what your anesthesia options are, and what the possible results of the surgery will be. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask them. This is the only way you'll feel comfortable and confident about the procedure.

Dental Implants: A Way to Restore Your Smile

Losing a tooth is a big deal. Not only will it affect a person's body image and self-esteem, it could also have an impact on one's speech, ability to chew, and smile. Gone are the days when you can effortlessly bite into an apple, join conversations without being awkward, and pose confidently in front of a camera. Luckily, oral surgeons have a way to restore the smile you once had: dental implants.

Dental implants are tooth replacements that look and function like real teeth. They are usually made of titanium and covered with either a bridge or a porcelain crown. This extremely beneficial dental technology does not decay, and are stain resistant. Aside from that, they are convenient, and very easy to clean and maintain.

Once a dental implant is installed, it can last for a lifetime, especially if you properly and diligently care for it. That said, it is vital that you adhere to good oral hygiene practices after a dental implant surgery. This means you'll need to brush and floss regularly. You may also need to have professional dental cleaning once every six months, depending on the recommendation of your dentist.

If you believe that a dental implant is the ideal solution for your tooth loss problem, talk to a dental implant specialist. He will assess your oral and dental condition to confirm if implants are indeed the best option for you.

Where to Source Funds for Dental Implants

There is no question that dental implants are a necessity if having them would boost a person’s self confidence, enhance oral health, or improve one’s ability to speak or eat. Upon implantation, these artificial tooth roots act like the natural pearly whites that a patient lost; a feature or benefit that makes implants more preferable to dentures. Having a natural smile, though, can be costly.

Where to get the funds for this surgery? There is the zero-interest credit card, of course, which could be used for the sole purpose of financing the dental implant. Within a year or so, if the typical terms apply, the cost of implant will be covered. Timely payment is vital in this scheme.

Better yet (if you have an unquestionable credit score), secure a credit card that banks issue for dental and medical emergencies only. Payments for this plastic can be spread over a period of between three and 48 months so it will not be financially burdensome for the client.

The third source of funding for dental implants could come from the teeth doctor himself. Dental practitioners are usually aware of reputable financial institutions that agree to cover procedures that would improve health (this time, oral health). It would not hurt to ask the professional if he can put you on an easy payment scheme, if all potential fund sources fall through.