Dental implants are highly sought to replace missing teeth. If they are successfully placed, they have proven to be a long-lasting solution that can boost oral health and improve one’s quality of life.
So, how do you get the highest level of treatment and optimal results? You need the right dentist.
Below are a few tips to help you find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA.
Specialized Training
Most general dentists can perform many types of treatments. It’s why we visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and exams or when experiencing tooth pain and discomfort. They cover general dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more.
There is no denying that a general dentist can perform a long list of procedures to restore your oral health. However, additional surgical training can equip dentists better for dental implants.
When searching for the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, closely examine the dentist’s education and ensure they have the necessary specialized training.
Extensive Experience
Experience is key to finding success with your dental implants. For instance, the post must be surgically implanted in a very precise place within the jaw bone. If not, it can lead to complications and may even fail altogether. Further, those with low bone density may need to first undergo bone grafting to build up a stronger jaw bone capable of securing the implant.
Both of these procedures involve very specific techniques and are best handled by someone with experience. Without it, you are putting your implants – and oral health – at risk.
Technology and Equipment
To provide the utmost care to patients, the latest technology and equipment are a must. This is crucial when it comes to the perfect placement of dental implants.
3D imaging allows dental professionals to create a model of your mouth, making it easier to plan accordingly for the implant placement. Computer-guided surgery then helps the dentist to perfectly place the post in the bone.
These tools can help to reduce the treatment time and discomfort while increasing the success rate.
Seek Recommendations
One of the easiest ways to find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA is to ask for recommendations. Talk to your local friends, family, co-workers, or neighbors and ask if they have invested in dental implants themselves.
For those who have, ask about the dentist they chose and the overall experience. If it was positive, take a look at the dentist’s website and, if you feel like you may have found the right one, schedule a consultation.
Dental Implants in Framingham, MA
Are you looking for dentists who tick all the boxes in Framingham, MA? At Periodontal Associates, our dentists are certified and highly skilled surgical specialists with decades of experience providing the highest-quality dental implants.
From experience to expertise, as well as two convenient locations, what more can you ask for?
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or request an appointment online.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Office: 617-964-6185
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for implants?
Unfortunately, while many will cover a percentage of the cost to help you move forward with the treatment, most dental insurance plans will not cover the entire cost of the dental implants. Keep in mind that this varies greatly based on the specific coverage of your plan.
Are dental implants painful?
Local anesthetic is used during dental implant surgery, so you should not experience any pain. As its effects begin to wear off, some minor discomfort may be felt, but this is temporary. Dental implants should not cause any pain once they have healed.
The need for artificial tooth replacement is a necessity and dental implants are a wonderful option for individuals who are missing one or more natural teeth. They have been around for decades, but they continue to grow in popularity due to their resemblance to a real tooth, both aesthetically and functionally.
Most patients will find that they are candidates for dental implants, but this treatment is not the ideal solution for everyone.
This article explores what candidates for dental implants have in common.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Oral Health
Good oral health is very important when getting dental implants since opening a mouth up for oral surgery when it is full of decay or bacteria can be very risky. Thankfully, if you do have some trouble areas with your teeth and gums, addressing them before getting dental implants can allow you to be a candidate.
The goal is to make sure that you work with your dentist to address any areas of concern so that you have the best opportunity for successful implants.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Bone Density
The density of your jawbone will play a significant role in getting dental implants. When the titanium post is implanted into the jaw, it needs to fuse with the bone to create a strong anchor for your artificial tooth. Unfortunately, without enough bone density, this won’t be able to happen.
There are several reasons that individuals face jawbone loss. However, regardless of the reason, bone grafting can help to rebuild the bone so that it may securely hold the implant in place.
Keep in mind that bone grafting will require additional time as it takes a minimum of four months to heal before you can move on.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Patience For the Process
Finally, a candidate for dental implants will need to have an understanding that the process is not quick. For instance, you will first have your consultation to determine whether you are a candidate before the next steps are scheduled. If bone grafting is necessary, this will take place first before the post is implanted.
Next, the implant will need at least a couple of months to fuse with the jawbone before the abutment and the custom dental crown can be attached.
In all, expect the process for dental implants to take up to six months — or longer. If you are patient with the process, you will reap the benefits later.
Other Criteria for Dental Implant Candidates
A few other things that should be taken into consideration when determining if someone is or is not a candidate for dental implants are:
- Good oral hygiene to maintain your oral health
- Good overall health
- No use of tobacco, including smoking or chewing
Remember, most people will qualify as a candidate for dental implants as long as they prioritize their treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Will dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Whether or not your insurance will cover the cost of dental implants depends on your policy. If it does, it will usually cover a percentage.
Are dentures cheaper than dental implants?
Dentures often appear to be cheaper than dental implants. However, they are not designed to last as long which means they will require more frequent replacement — and this cost will add up over time.
Find Out if You Are a Candidate for Dental Implants
If you want to discover how dental implants can transform your life, find out if you are a candidate from the specialists at Periodontal Associates.
Contact us today at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation.
Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newtown Office 617-964-6185
Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options available. They look natural, function just like real teeth, and are long-lasting solutions, too. All of these benefits often prompt patients to seek out more information about dental implants — and to find out if they are a good candidate for them.
This patient’s guide to the dental implant procedure will give you a better understanding of what to expect.
Step One: The Consultation
Before you can move forward with a dental implant procedure, you have to know whether or not you are a candidate for it. Setting up an appointment with a skilled periodontist is the best place to start.
During this appointment, you can expect to have a comprehensive oral exam as well as some digital images and impressions. The dental specialist is trying to confirm that you have a sufficient amount of jawbone to support an implant — and that you have good oral hygiene without any sign of infection.
If you are a candidate for the procedure, your next appointment will be set.
Step 2: Placing the Dental Implant
During the procedure, the implant, typically made of titanium or zirconia, will be surgically placed in the jaw. Local anesthesia will be used so that you do not feel anything for the duration.
You will be given post-surgical instructions that you should follow carefully to reduce the risk of infection and give yourself the best chance for success. It will take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the implant and the bone to fuse thanks to a process known as osseointegration. During this time, the surrounding soft tissue will grow around the implant as if it were a natural tooth root.
Keep in mind that if you do not have sufficient bone mass in the jaw, you will be required to undergo bone grafting before the dental implant can be placed. This may add several additional weeks/ months to the overall process but is necessary to ensure the success of the implant.
Step 3: Adding the Dental Crown
Once your dental specialist feels that the implant has fused to the bone and can become a strong anchor for the tooth, the dental crown will be attached to the post with the help of an abutment. This crown will be customized to match your other teeth in size, shape, and color so that it will blend in well and look just like one of your other teeth.
With this addition, your smile and your bite force will be fully restored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for dental implants?
Some insurance plans will cover a percentage of the cost of dental implants. It is always a good idea to check the specifics of your coverage with your insurance carrier.
How long do dental implants last?
The average lifespan for a dental implant is 20 to 30 years. Dental crowns will typically need to be replaced in 10 to 15 years. With exceptional oral hygiene, you can give an ever greater boost to their longevity.
Interested in Dental Implants?
If you would like to learn more about dental implants or see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, the dental specialists at Periodontal Associates can help. We have extensive experience in the perfect placement of dental implants.
If you’d like to learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us today. Or, you can request an appointment online.
It’s true — getting dental implants can take a lot of time as the process from start to finish can last several months. Nonetheless, this high-quality way to replace missing teeth is growing in popularity and becoming more and more accessible to patients.
With growth comes new advancements, such as the ability to get implants in one day. While it is not a solution for every patient, certain circumstances do allow it. Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding Same-Day Dental Implants
Being able to get your dental implants in one day is very convenient. You can walk into the dentist missing one or more teeth and walk out with a new tooth, an implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures. How is that possible?
Traditional implants require the tooth to be extracted, the post to be implanted, and time to pass for the implant and the bone to fuse together. This alone usually takes 3 to 4 months, if not longer. Then you will go back and have the abutment and dental crown attached. The entire process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to complete.
Dental implants that are done in one day will involve the placing of the implant, the abutment, and the crown all in one visit. And, if an extraction is needed, that will be taken care of, too.
While the procedure takes place in one sitting, a couple of visits are required. You will meet with your dentist for a consultation to ensure that you are a candidate for the procedure and handle the prep work for it. Then you will have your implant date and a follow-up visit.
Who is a Candidate for Same Day Dental Implants?
It may sound like an ideal solution, but not everyone is a candidate for same-day dental implants. You will need to have enough bone density to support the implant, as well as good oral health and oral hygiene. No signs of decay or gum disease can be present.
Your periodontist will do an oral examination during your consultation and determine whether or not you are a candidate for the fast-track to dental implants or if traditional implants would be a more successful option. Remember, your dental specialist is always looking at the best option for your oral health — and the one that will yield the greatest results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alternative to dental implants?
Traditional dentures and dental bridges are alternatives to dental implants. While they work well and have been around for decades, they do not offer the same high-level functionality that comes with dental implants.
Do dental implants hurt?
The dental implant procedure is performed using local anesthetic keeping you from feeling any pain for the duration. It will eventually wear off and you may feel mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medication can offer relief.
Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates
Are you interested in dental implants? If you want to see whether or not you are a candidate for this gold standard of tooth replacement, our team of highly experienced dental specialists at Periodontal Associates is here for you. We address each dental implant patient with the utmost care and precision.
Contact us at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation today.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newtown Office: 617-964-6185
A smile is a powerful tool that can light up a room and leave a lasting impression on those around us. However, missing teeth can cause insecurity and hinder the ability to express oneself confidently. Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for those seeking to restore their smiles. But what exactly are dental implants and how do they work? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the science behind dental implants, from the initial consultation to the final restoration. We will uncover the benefits of dental implants, including improved speech, better oral health, and increased self-esteem. So, whether you are considering dental implants for yourself or simply curious about the process, join us as we delve into the world of dental implantology.
What are dental implants made of?
Dental implants consist of three main components: the implant itself, the abutment, and the crown. The implant is a small, screw-shaped post made of biocompatible materials that are safe for the human body, such as titanium or zirconia.
The implant is placed directly into the jawbone, where it fuses with the surrounding bone tissue in a process known as osseointegration. The abutment is a connector piece that attaches to the implant and protrudes above the gumline, providing a stable base for the crown. Finally, the crown is the visible part of the implant that resembles a natural tooth and is custom-made to match the surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color.
Benefits of dental implants over other tooth replacement options
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. Unlike dentures, dental implants are securely anchored to the jawbone, which prevents them from slipping or shifting in the mouth. This makes it easier to speak and eat with confidence without worrying about embarrassing mishaps.
Dental implants also help maintain the natural shape of the face by preventing the jawbone from deteriorating/ resorbing, which can occur when teeth are missing for a prolonged period. This can help prevent sagging and premature aging of the face. Additionally, dental implants do not require any special care or maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing, unlike dentures or bridges, which can require special cleaning solutions or adhesives.
The science behind dental implants – osseointegration
The key to the success of dental implants lies in a process known as osseointegration. Osseointegration refers to the biological process of bone tissue integrating with the surface of the implant, creating a strong and stable anchor for the implant to support the replacement tooth.
In order for osseointegration to occur, the implant must be made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that are not rejected by the body’s immune system. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it is left to heal for several months while osseointegration takes place. During this time, the bone tissue grows and attaches itself to the surface of the implant, creating a secure and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
The dental implant procedure – step by step
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps, beginning with an initial consultation with a dental professional. During the consultation, the dentist will examine the patient’s teeth and gums, take x-rays or 3D scans of the mouth, and discuss the patient’s medical history and any medications they may be taking. Once the patient is deemed a suitable candidate for dental implants, the actual procedure can begin.
The first step involves placing the implant into the jawbone. The jawbone needs to be in a condition of health and with sufficient shape and form to house the implant. If necessary bone grafting would need to be performed to create a stable foundation for placing the implant. This is done under local anesthesia to ensure that the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The implant is then left to heal for several months while osseointegration takes place. Once the implant is fused with the surrounding bone tissue, the abutment is attached to the implant, to create a base for the crown. Finally, the crown is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration process.
Aftercare and maintenance for dental implants
Taking care of dental implants is relatively straightforward and requires similar care to natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing plaque buildup around the implant.
It is also important to avoid chewing on hard or crunchy foods, as this can damage the crown or abutment. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also important for ensuring the health and longevity of the implant, as the dentist can monitor for any signs of infection or other complications.
Common misconceptions about dental implants
There are several common misconceptions about dental implants that can prevent people from considering them as a viable tooth replacement option. One of the most common misconceptions is that dental implants are painful or uncomfortable. In reality, the implant procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and is relatively painless.
Additionally, once the implant has fused with the bone tissue, it feels and functions just like a natural tooth. Another common misconception is that dental implants are prohibitively expensive. While dental implants can be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, their longevity and durability make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Dental Implants in Newton & Framingham, MA
Dental implants are a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for those seeking to restore their smiles and improve their oral health. By understanding the science behind dental implants and the benefits they offer, patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and feel confident in their choice.
If you are considering dental implants, contact us at one of our offices so that we can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a lifetime of smiles and confidence.
Before getting dental implants, it is always a good idea to have an idea of what you can expect after the procedure. Doing so will allow you to be prepared for anything that may arise – especially as it pertains to your diet and the foods you should have on hand at home.
While you may have to make some changes, how long after dental implants can you eat normally? Let’s find out.
Eating After Getting Dental Implants
During the first 24 hours after your dental implant surgery you will want to take it easy. This means either sticking to a liquid diet of broths and smoothies or eating only soft foods, such as yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, soups, smashed bananas, and so forth.
You will also want to avoid foods with small seeds that may get lodged in the surgical site, as well as those that are:
- Crunchy
- Spicy
- Hot
- Chewy
- Acidic
As you begin healing, you can slowly start to incorporate certain foods back into your diet. This includes anything that is rather easy to chew. Everyday foods like pasta, chicken, fish, cooked vegetables, fruits, eggs, pancakes, soft bread, and so on can be consumed.
Just be sure to continue to avoid crunchy and chewy foods as much as possible until your healing is complete.
When Can You Eat Normally with Dental Implants?
Your mouth has a lot of healing to do after dental implant surgery. This is because the implant must fuse with the jaw bone in order to provide you with a sturdy anchor for your new tooth. You want to do what you can to avoid causing any harm to this area so that it has every chance possible for successful healing.
It will take about 3 to 4 weeks, on average, to heal enough from dental implants to eat normally. Though bear in mind that it can take up to 6 months to fully heal from the procedure. So you will still want to avoid hard and chewy foods in the implant area during this time.
Don’t worry – you won’t have to stick to liquid or soft foods for the entire time. You will be able to adjust the foods you eat as you go through the process.
Tips for Eating After Getting Dental Implants
Below are a few tips to incorporate into your routine as you heal from getting dental implants. Be sure to discuss any specific details with your periodontist to achieve the greatest results.
- Cut your food into small bites.
- Chew away from where your implants are located.
- Stick to the right foods until you are ready to progress.
- Be sure you are drinking a lot and keeping your mouth hydrated.
Dental Implants From Periodontal Associates
At Periodontal Associates, we understand that having dental implants successfully placed is only the first step in a great outcome. The rest will come with the care they receive at home. Eating the right foods – and avoiding those that are dangerous while you are healing – can lead to long-lasting, highly functional implants.
Ready to learn more or get started? Contact us today.
For patients missing most or all of the teeth on the upper or lower arches, the innovative All-On-Four dental implant protocol offers incredible health, cosmetic, and lifestyle benefits. Using just four implanted screws strategically placed in the jaw, you can replace an entire arch of teeth with natural-looking and functioning teeth. Read on to learn how All-On-Four dental implants can benefit you.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Require Just One Surgical Procedure
If you choose to replace an arch of teeth with All-on-Four dental implants, all four of the biocompatible screws can be surgically placed during a single procedure. The arch of teeth can replace the need for multiple bridges, multiple crowns, or ill-fitting dentures.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Preserve Your Jawbone
Missing teeth lead to deterioration of the jawbone beneath them. Without a tooth root, the jawbone has no functional need, ( disuse atrophy ) so it begins to recede. However, the implanted screws placed for your All-On-Four implants will help to preserve the jawbone, and in some cases even regenerate lost bone. This is because the implanted screws act as natural tooth roots. Once the screws are implanted, the jawbone and the soft tissues begin to fuse with them.
Your jawbone is responsible for maintaining your facial structure. When it recedes, the mouth begins to look sunken. All-On-Four, therefore, helps to preserve your facial appearance by preventing further loss of the jawbone.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Allow You to Enjoy Life Again
Studies have conclusively shown that missing teeth negatively affects your quality of life. Whether you skip out on dinners because chewing is difficult, or you avoid photos or get-togethers because you don’t want to smile or laugh, or you’re afraid to apply for a job you want because you’re insecure about your teeth, living with multiple missing teeth leads to significant self-esteem issues.
All-On-Four dental implants allow you to get back into the game of life. You’ll be able to eat your favorite foods and smile with confidence thanks to artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth.
All-On-Four Dental Implants are Extremely Long-Lasting
Your dental implants have an expected lifespan of 20 years or more. Patients who practice excellent oral hygiene, and see the dentist twice yearly for cleanings and exams may find that their implants last their entire life.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Eliminate the Need for Adhesives & Prevents Slippage
The All-On-Four procedure is a fixed, permanent procedure. The artificial teeth will not be taken out at night, nor does it require denture adhesives, soaks, or other solutions. The prosthetic teeth are permanently attached to the implants, so you also won’t have to worry about them not fitting properly, or slipping out of place.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Can Prevent Periodontal Problems
If you have a lot of missing teeth, you’re at increased risk of periodontal disease, along with potential threats to your overall health. To date, periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk of many serious health conditions such as heart attack, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and others.
All-On-Four Dental Implants Are More Cost Effective Than Single Tooth Implants
The All-On-Four procedure is typically more affordable than individual dental implants for multiple missing teeth.
Ready to Learn More About All-On-Four Dental Implants? Contact Us Today
If you’re missing many or all of your teeth on the upper or lower arch, you may be a candidate for All-On-Four dental implants. To book a consultation, contact us today. You may also send us a message, and our team will follow up to confirm your appointment. Periodontal Associates has offices in Newton & Framingham, MA.
Dental implants are a long-lasting replacement for your own natural teeth. Durable, just like your own teeth, with good oral hygiene, they’re permanent replacements. The implant will fuse to your jawbone directly, replacing not just your external tooth, but strengthening your jawbone as well as the bone surrounding it.
What are Implants?
With a 95% success rate, implants can be used in a number of different ways. Each type of implant is made for a purpose, whether that is to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as a support system for replacing many teeth.
All implants have three different parts: the artificial tooth root acts as a base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame is attached to the base, and is designed to hold an artificial tooth; and then there is the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth.
Implants support and assist with your jawbone health and that of other teeth, as well as improving your smile.They can also help you to speak more clearly, too. And, because implants are just like your natural teeth, you care for them as you would your own teeth.
Use the same good kind of dental hygiene that you do for your own natural teeth, in other words:
- Brush them and floss twice a day
- Schedule your regular 6 month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist
What Type of Metal is Used in Dental Implants?
Dental implants are commonly made from titanium. The titanium is medical-grade, and it is chosen because it is extremely highly biocompatible and it is also strong, so the implant post can fuse with your jawbone around it.
Different Types of Implants
There are four main kinds of implants, including:
- Single Tooth Dental Implants
- Multiple Teeth Replacement Implants
- All-on-Four Implants
Single Tooth Implants
The most typical implant type is a single tooth dental implant. Inserted in the jawbone surgically, the implant replaces your missing tooth without any damage to your surrounding teeth. That single implanted tooth is just like your natural tooth as to how it looks and functions.
Multiple Teeth
If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge can be used.
The implants replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them covers the remaining gap.
All-on-4 Implants
If you’re missing all your teeth in an upper or lower arch, all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Just these four implants cano support a full replacement arch.
All-on-4 implants are both fully durable and functional, supporting your jawbone and making use of your available bone to help prevent the need for a bone graft. Once these implant posts are placed, then your artificial teeth are attached. This kind of implant is frequently recommended because of its comfort, permanence, and excellent functionality instead of traditional dentures.
Are You Ready to Learn More about Implants?
If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants, just give us a call. We can help you with the replacement of any damaged or missing teeth. If you want to find out more about implants, we’re here to help. Just reach out today!
Whether you are looking for a natural tooth replacement for one tooth, a few teeth, or an entire mouth of teeth, dental implants are the gold standard.
Every time you lose a tooth, the teeth surrounding the now empty space become vulnerable. They may begin to shift, causing your bite to fall out of alignment – and this can lead to many additional oral health concerns.
You can prevent this by investing in tooth replacement, such as dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth replacement that looks incredibly real – and functions just like a real tooth, too. A titanium post becomes an artificial root and is implanted into the jaw bone. Once they are fused together, an abutment is then added to the top of the implant in order to hold the artificial tooth – or dental crown – in place.
These implants come with some great benefits, too. They are not subject to decay so you will never need a root canal treatment, they cannot stain, and they help to preserve the jaw bone. Patients who have them are quick to say that they feel and function just like a natural tooth.
Dental implants have a very high success rate and are meant to last a long time. Keep in mind that while the post may last, the dental crown will likely need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. Though it can last longer with exceptional treatment.
The great news is that dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all sort of deal. Different types serve different purposes based on your need. Let’s take a look.
Types of Dental Implants
There are 3 main types of dental implants. Choosing which one is best for you will be determined by how many teeth you are missing.
Single Dental Implant. For patients with one missing tooth, a single dental implant can be used. It will fill in the space where there is a missing tooth and allow you the opportunity to reduce the risk of any oral health issues that stem from leaving the space empty.
Dental Implant-Supported Bridges. To replace multiple teeth, a dental bridge can help – as long as the teeth are in a consecutive row. Traditional bridges require the filing down of the natural teeth on either side and a crown placed on these perfectly healthy teeth. With a dental implant bridge, you don’t have to use the surrounding teeth to support the bridge as the implant will do all the work.
Dental implant bridges are a long-lasting solution that has a high success rate – especially when compared to other options.
Dental-Implant Supported Dentures. Missing all your teeth, whether on the top, bottom, or both, often requires dentures in order to be able to maintain a decent quality of life. But, traditional dentures usually need to be replaced every 5-7 years and can feel loose and unstable within the mouth. Dental implant-supported dentures are a new, welcomed option. Using about 4 dental implants, they are able to hold an entire arch. This gives stability and comfort – not to mention that their appearance and function are just like that of real teeth.
Choosing the Best Type of Dental Implants
When it comes to dental implants, you can work with your dentist to choose the best one for your needs. This will depend on how many teeth you are missing and where they are missing. Either way, you will find that dental implants offer a long-term, highly functional solution for replacing missing teeth.
Are you a candidate for dental implants? Do you want to see which one would be the best option for you? Then Periodontal Associates is here for you.
Contact us today at the office most convenient for you:
Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.
Making the decision to get dental implants is a step in the right direction for the future of your oral health. But just like your real teeth, your dental implants require a level of care, as well. This is how you can ensure their longevity and keep them looking great, too.
It all starts with properly cleaning your dental implants – and here’s how you do it.
Cleaning Your Implants
Keeping your dental implants clean is much like keeping your teeth clean. You just want to take extra care to avoid causing any harm or damage. Follow these steps.
Brush Your Teeth
You will want to make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush as anything harder may cause damage to your gums and cause bleeding. If you prefer, you can use an electric toothbrush. Manual or electric soft-bristled toothbrushes will both work to remove things like tartar and plaque while still keeping your teeth healthy and safe.
Make sure you brush at least two times per day. Though if you can brush after every meal, that’s even better. First thing in the morning you should brush your teeth to remove any bacteria that developed overnight — and rid yourself of that nasty morning breath. Brushing again before bed helps remove any buildup from the day and keeps plaque and decay at bay while you sleep.
Floss Regularly
Flossing is important. It gets all the buildup of debris and particles that have been tucked away in between and around your teeth. Known as an oral irrigator, a water flosser allows you to safely floss your teeth using water. This is one of the best tools for thorough flossing — and is usually highly recommended by dentists.
If you do not have a water flosser, using a fuzzy crown flosser is your next best option. It will help you get in between areas and clean them without risking dislodging your crown. It is not likely to happen, but not tugging on it with floss from underneath will keep it healthy and secure.
Floss daily – at least once – to maintain good oral hygiene.
Increase the Life of Your Dental Implants With These Tips
Sometimes you just need to learn the tips that will transform the way you approach your oral health. And when it comes to implants, there are a few things you should know.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste. Or a low-abrasive option. This would be one that doesn’t include whitening agents or baking soda. These are too abrasive and can cause damage to implants, making them look dull and worn.
- When brushing, use a soft-bristled angled toothbrush so you can reach up under the abutment/post while brushing to keep it extra clean.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Deep cleanings can only be received at your dentist’s office – and they are important to protect your dental implants. So make your appointment every 6 months and keep it!
Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates
Whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, dental implants can have a positive impact on your overall quality of life. If you are interested in learning more, then the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations.
Framingham Office: (508) 875-6185
Newton Office: (617) 964-6185
Or schedule an appointment online.