We live in a world of modern technology that churns out new advances every day. In dentistry, one of those advances is in the area of tooth replacement. If you have gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth, you may suffer self-consciousness and hesitation to show your teeth, even where your loss is due to factors beyond your control. If you live in Concord, NH, you can count on the White Park Dental team to offer a solution: a dental implant.
What Happens with Lost Teeth?
The impacts of lost teeth can be severe. At first, a lost tooth may make for less effective chewing. But over time, your adjacent natural teeth may shift and become loose on their way to also becoming lost. Working teeth promote bone health. The pressure from chewing stimulates regeneration in your jaw. Without teeth, your bone will eventually break down.
A Long-Term Solution: Dental Implants
Dental implants replace a tooth from root to crown. The titanium base is called the dental implant post, which we surgically insert into your jawbone. The implant abutment sits on top of the post and connects the titanium screw to the visible restoration above the gumline. This restoration is called a crown that mimics your natural tooth.
Caring for Your Implants
Your dental implant can last for decades with proper care. However, as the crown portion will never decay, you must still maintain healthy gums. Debris that accumulates around your implant could lead to gum disease. This condition endangers your bone if your gum disease progresses.
Your at-home oral hygiene should include brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush as abrasive products can damage your crown or natural teeth.
You should also avoid overly chewy or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your dental implant crown.
It would be best if you also kept regular dentist visits for a checkup and professional level cleaning. With diligent care, your dental implant may last for years, mainly because the crown restoration portion may be replaced if it becomes loose or damaged.
Dental Implant Specialists in Concord, NH
Dr. Kristen Harvey’s team specializes in the use of dental implant technology. We can offer the treatment that works best for you, from implants to replace individual teeth to implant-supported dentures. For more details on this innovative advance in technology. Schedule an appointment to get started.