How Do Dental Implants Stay in Place?
Bone needs to be stimulated regularly to maintain its structure and density. The pressure applied on the root of a tooth when chewing usually stimulates the bone in the jaw the most. When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone is left without a stimulant and loses shape and density over time. On the other hand, the surrounding bone will preserve its strength and shape if the lost tooth is replaced with a dental implant. So, how can a dental implant stay in place? The explanation lies in the natural fusing of the bones.
The Fusion Process of Osseointegration
Like those found on a screw in a hardware shop, grooves are used to make dental implants. These grooves aid the implants in their initial integration into the bone, but this isn’t the key to their long-term stability. Dental implants are often made of titanium, a metal with which human bone forms a natural bond. Following installation, the remaining dental bone attaches to the titanium in the same way that it bonds to the root of a normal tooth. “Osteointegration” is the term for this fusion process. This natural process necessitates a healing time of 3-6 months with minimum stimulus to the healing implant. As a result, the dental implant integrates with the jawbone and performs similarly as a natural tooth would.
Is it Possible for Implants to Come Loose During the Healing Process?
A dental implant that has been properly formulated and cared for is very unlikely to fail throughout the healing period. On average, dental implants have a 98 percent success rate in fusing with the bone. The implant should last a lifetime after this process has developed and if proper oral hygiene is maintained.
Avoid these things throughout the healing process:
1. Excessive pressure on the implant: Extreme pressure on a healing implant might cause it to shift or come loose. During the healing period, dental implant recipients are especially exposed to this pressure when chewing tough meals. As a result, oral surgeons will put their patients on a soft diet throughout the healing period.
2. Smoking: It is recommended that you stop smoking to ensure your implant treatment’s success and longevity.
Finally, you do not need to be concerned about dental implant failure if you keep adequate cleanliness. Your implants are set to last a lifetime! Oral board-certified surgeon, Dr. Pollock, is prepared to give you the best possible implant therapy so that you can keep your teeth for the rest of your life. After your 6-month healing period, you’ll be able to eat whatever you want without fear of implant complications.
