When it comes to restorative dentistry, nothing is more of a complete solution than a dental implant Melbourne, taking little more than a void in your smile and replacing it with a seamless replica of a tooth that could have been lost many years ago. Not only does implanting technology have no deadline, but there are also only a few limitations on who can receive it and what teeth are feasible to replace.
What are oral implants?
In many ways, immobilised oral implants can be seen as a progression to the crown in providing an artificial tooth, fixed surely and immobilised in the patient’s mouth. Unfortunately, crowns need to be built on top of pre-existing teeth with the health and structural strength of the root being the largest factor in its longevity and success. This is where implants differ from crowns; they have an artificial root, allowing them to be responsible for their own integration into the patient’s jaw.
The most commonly used type of oral implant is the endosteal implant, followed by subperiosteal, zygomatic and mini implants.
The surgical process
The surgical process for immobilised oral implants occurs over two sections. At the start of the first session, all of the preparation steps are taken: a review of the patient’s medical history and guiding x-rays.
The first surgical step is to open the gum at the desired implantation site, revealing the jaw beneath, then a hole is drilled to accommodate the artificial root component of the implant. Once placed in the jaw, the gum is closed over it and sutured. The gum tissue helps to immobilise the titanium peg, holding it in place as new bone tissue grows around it. This can take anywhere between 4 to 12 months and is heavily dependent on the patient’s health and genetic factors that control the rate of bone growth.
The titanium portion of the implant is then confirmed to be fully integrated into the jaw by x-ray. The second stage in the procedure begins when the gum is reopened and the artificial tooth is affixed to the end of the implant by the use of the connector. The connector semi-permanently locks the two pieces of the implant together.
Recovery, longevity and maintenance
Immobilised oral implants are slightly strange in that their recovery period is really between the two procedures. After the implant has been loaded, it is ready to use and probably up to the rigours of everyday eating and talking. So, if the implant has reached the point of being loaded, it is likely to last a lifetime if maintained well. In the event that the prosthetic tooth becomes damaged (usually by accidental trauma), it can be detached from the titanium component and replaced with a new prosthetic.
The everyday maintenance is the same as any natural tooth with brushing, flossing and a 6-month checkup at your local clinic. As the implant can seamlessly blend in with one’s everyday routine, many patients forget which of their teeth are actually implants and which are their natural teeth.
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
