An injury to your mouth or a case of gum disease may cause you to lose teeth. Fortunately, implant dentistry can restore your smile after losing one or more teeth. After receiving your implants, the visible improvement in your smile will be obvious. However, there is more to learn about your new artificial teeth. By understanding these interesting facts about your new dental implants, you will be more familiar with the benefits and the proper techniques to maintain your new smile.

Built To Last 

Wearing dentures or a bridge causes pressure that weakens the jawbone, so implants are healthier, stronger option for restoring your smile.

Constructed out of titanium and anchored into the upper or lower jaw of your mouth, dental implants are built to last. When secured into the jaw, the titanium fuses to the jawbone, promoting healthy and strong bone growth. Titanium is a lightweight metal, but it is incredibly strong, ensuring the artificial tooth remains in place for up to a lifetime.

Cavity Free

An artificial tooth is secured to the titanium implant in your jaw. This artificial tooth does not contain natural properties, so you do not need to worry about cavities affecting the actual tooth. However, proper brushing, flossing, rinsing, and regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and exams are still necessary to maintain the health of surrounding teeth and gums.

Failure Is Possible

Dental implant surgery is successful more than 90 percent of the time, but an implant failure is possible. During the second stage of surgery, your dentist may notice the implant is loose. Before attaching the artificial tooth, your dentist will need to relocate the implant to ensure it secures to the jawbone.

In some instances, the implant will be unable to fuse with the jaw if you lack sufficient bone. This may require a bone graft surgery, which can improve the quality and strength of the jawbone.

Other complications may develop after surgery, as well. Here are a few complications that may cause your implants to fail:

• Infections – Without proper brushing and flossing, bacteria will linger inside your mouth. Over time, this bacteria can spread onto the gums and tissue surrounding your implant.
• Damage – The titanium implant may be secured into your jawbone, but damage may occur to the artificial tooth. If you have a misaligned bite, extra pressure will be placed on the artificial tooth, possibly causing it to chip or break. Also, this damage to the tooth may loosen the implant holding it in place.
• Allergies – Many patients are allergic to titanium and other metals. A titanium allergy may cause rashes, swelling, and chronic fatigue syndrome. If you develop these symptoms after receiving the implants, a complete removal will be necessary.

Implant dentistry is an effective option for restoring your smile, but you may not be completely familiar with this innovative and effective option. Using this guide and the help of your dentists, you will fully understand your new implants.