According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 91% of adults aged 20–64 had dental caries, and 27% had untreated tooth decay that can lead to tooth loss. But tooth decay is not the only factor that can lead to tooth loss; gum disease is another common cause. Also, many people lose teeth to accidents or trauma. By the age of 44, an estimated 69 percent of Americans have lost at least one tooth. Tooth loss is growing, and the need for solutions is growing with it.
One popular and effective solution is dental implants. They offer an alternative to dentures that need to be removed and cleaned. Implants give the patient an option that most closely resembles natural teeth. Though dental implants are made to last for decades, they still need to be maintained, and that is where implant restoration comes in. Dental implant restoration involves restoring the strength, appearance, and function of a dental implant that has become loose, damaged, or experienced another form of complication.
Dental implant restoration involves restoring the strength, appearance, and function of a dental implant that has become loose or damaged. When a patient has an issue with a dental implant, it is best to seek assistance from a professional. Here are some examples of circumstances that prompt the need for dental implant restorations:
Bellevue Dental encourages anyone who experiences complications with the stability, function, appearance, or health of their dental implant or the surrounding area to schedule an appointment to learn how implant restoration can help.
Each restoration procedure is unique. If complications develop with the dental implant and restoration is necessary, the dentist will conduct an oral examination to determine the severity of the issues and the underlying cause. Our team will answer any questions you may have. The dentist may recommend other dental treatments, such as gum disease treatment, bone grafting, and gum grafting.
When replacing a dental implant, the current implant is typically removed and replaced with a screw-retained or cement-retained restoration. These are the two primary types of dental implant restorations. According to FOR.org, complication rates of both are nearly identical at around 3%. A screw-retained restoration provides secure retention and is easy to tighten if it becomes loose, but it may not be as cosmetically pleasing. Many consider cement-retained restorations to be more attractive, but they are often more difficult to adjust if issues with the implant develop. Our team can help you decide which type is best suited to you.
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There is typically some discomfort following an implant restoration and aftercare instructions to follow. To speed up recovery and avoid irritation of the affected area, stick to a soft diet of healthy foods and do not consume beverages high in sugar. Patients are often required to make routine follow-up visits as well.
You can take steps to make your dental implants last and reduce the need for implant restoration. Dentists advise you not only avoid certain foods but also tobacco products and smoking. For dental implants, patients should use a low-abrasion toothpaste along with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Special flosses and interdental brushes can make it easier to keep your dental implants clean and the area around them healthy.
If the crown is loose or broken or the abutment that joins it to the implant is loose, it is more likely to be an easy fix. However, If the actual implant post is loose or fractured, things get more complicated. A broken implant post must be taken out and replaced with a new one. The same goes for a loose implant post, but there are cases where the crown may be reused on the new implant. If you have had bone loss, you may need bone grafting and time to heal before receiving the new implant.
No matter what the cause, treat a loose implant as a dental emergency. A loose implant can lead to bone loss and infection, and any type of damage can worsen if ignored. Call our team right away if an implant becomes loose or damaged.
