One in four adults in the UK lose teeth. This may be down to an accident or doing something you shouldn’t, like opening a bottle with your teeth! However, most often tooth loss is due to bad dental hygiene. Luckily, due to the advancements in dental care you can have a second chance at the perfect smile!

What is a dental implant and how are they fitted?

Dental implants can replace a lost tooth or even teeth and give you back your perfect smile. The implant is essentially a titanium screw that is embedded into your jawbone. The procedure is relatively simple and you shouldn’t feel any discomfort due to a local anaesthetic being administered. A small hole is then drilled into the jaw and the titanium screw fitted directly into this hole. The gum is then stitched around the screw. The gum and jawbone will then grow around the screw, creating new blood vessels and tissues fully integrating the screw. This creates a ‘false root’ which is strong and will not wobble. The healing period is around 3 to 5 months depending on the person. Once the rod is integrated a crown is then fitted onto the screw. The crown will match the colour of your teeth creating a completely natural look.

Although most dental clinics offer dental implants, it is always good to find a specialist in the area. If you are living in Orpington, dental implants couldn’t be easier as you have a clinic on your doorstep. Orpington Dental Care fits dental implants, dedicated in providing the best possible care for its patients. They offer a range of options to suit your budget including financial plans to fit your wallet.

After care!

After care of your ‘new’ tooth is also incredibly important. Much like a natural tooth an implant must be kept clean with good oral hygiene. Since food can get trapped around your crown it is possible for your gum to be infected so it’s important to create a good dental hygiene routine. Brushing effectively with a good brush, applying dental floss to all your teeth and using a good mouth rinse will take care of your implant as it does your natural teeth. Specialist dental floss and inter dental tooth brushes may also prove to be effective, your dentist or implantologist can advise you on the best routine.