Dental Implants: A Lifetime Investment in Your Smile

Many times we remember people who we have seen in the crowds or met personally and have an impression of how beautiful their smile was. A confident and healthy smile always has a lasting impression on us, and we all try to achieve that charm. That is why people with missing teeth feel quite self-conscious about smiling in front of others. While this is one factor, missing teeth can affect the way you speak and eat. That is why dental implants are emerging as a transformative process that will help you get permanent, natural-looking replacements for your lost teeth. It is more than just a cosmetic procedure for an enchanting smile, the dentist advised this as a treatment in the case of periodontitis. If you also want to try this treatment consulting with a Mequon dentist can be a first step towards a better smile. Continue reading this blog to understand its benefits and whether it is the right option for you.

What Are Dental Implants?

It is a fake root for your tooth that is placed into your jawbone through a surgical procedure. These are made of titanium making it favorable for your body and it helps to support a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture. This process is done without harming the teeth next to it, unlike traditional dentures or bridges which require the teeth next to it to be trimmed down to support the bridge; these do not need any support. These are specifically designed to fuse with our jawbone ensuring a lifelong support, with the material that easily bonds with our body. It creates a stable support for the foundation of artificial teeth, a unique process known as osseo integration. 

Benefits Of Choosing Dental Implants

Choosing to get dental implants comes with its own sets of benefits that set them apart from general traditional dental procedures. Firstly and more importantly, it does not affect your jawbone. Due to the prolonged period after tooth loss, the bone may start to decay. It restores the functions of your teeth as before, due to missing teeth it might be difficult to chew and bite. This is a sturdy replacement for the missing tooth allowing you to chew and bite properly. What can be majorly said to be setting this treatment apart is the long-lasting effect it has with proper dental care. The material titanium used to design is resistant to corrosion and strong. Unlike other procedures which have to be redone in 5-10 years, it is a one-time solution for a longer period. One factor that we take into consideration mostly is this treatment does not affect your jaw or face structure at all, which is very important for our overall aesthetic. As these implants are independently standing and not relying on the teeth next to them, it makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, which is going to help in preventing periodontal disease or tooth decay.y

Is This An Ideal Solution For Everyone?

The answer is No! While this has many perks it is not advised to everyone. Many factors need to be considered before going ahead with this treatment. A healthy jawbone is essential for root placement, if there is bone loss because of prolonged tooth loss or maybe due to any gum disease, you will need to do a bone graft before. If you have certain health conditions like diabetes, immune system disorders, and cancer it might not be a good choice for you to go ahead with this procedure. Your dental health and maintenance will play an important role, as it requires good aftercare for long-lasting effects. If your oral hygiene is not proper it may lead to infections on implant sites that is why regular brushing, flossing, and professional routine cleansing of teeth is required.

See Your Dentist Soon!

To check whether this is an ideal treatment for you consult your dentist who will help you after evaluating your overall health conditions, letting you understand the pros and cons of it.

How to Prevent and Treat Tooth Erosion in Show Low, AZ

Tooth erosion is a prevalent dental disease and if not guided properly, can grow into a major trouble for oral hygiene. Residents of Show Low, AZ, can learn how to maintain healthy and strong teeth by understanding the causes of tooth erosion, preventative measures to take, and treatment options available. In this article, we will explore how to prevent and effectively treat tooth erosion with the help of a dentist in Show Low, AZ.

What Is Tooth Erosion?

Enamel is the hard outer layer of the teeth, and tooth erosion is a process in which these outer layers are worn away by acidic substances. Unlike cavities caused by bacteria, erosion is a chemical process that dissolves the enamel. Eventually, this may cause sensitivity, staining, and a higher risk of decay.

Causes of Tooth Erosion

There are a few common reasons for tooth erosion, such as:

  • Foods We Eat: Eating acid-producing consumables, including citrus foods, soda, and sports beverages, may lead to enamel wearing away much faster.
  • Acid Reflux: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can also bring gastric acids into the mouth and erode enamel.
  • Dry Mouth: Saliva aids in neutralizing acids in the mouth. A dry mouth, often caused by medications or medical conditions, can raise the risk of erosion.
  • Brushing: Brushing too hard (or using a hard-bristled toothbrush) may erode enamel, especially if accompanied by brushing right after the consumption of acidic foods or beverages.

Preventing Tooth Erosion

You can avoid these tooth erosion complications with the help of prevention. Watch your acidity levels. Here are effective strategies to prevent tooth erosion:

Adjust Your Diet

  • Reduce Acidic Food and Drinks: Decrease the consumption of acidic drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and citric juices. When you do have them, opt for a straw to limit your teeth contact.
  • Rinse Your Mouth: After consuming anything acidic, follow it with a rinse of water to help neutralize the acids. Sugar-free gum can also increase saliva production.

Follow Good Oral Hygiene Practices

  • Choose a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will help to minimize and avoid enamel damage.
  • Wait to Brush: Give your teeth at least half an hour to re-harden their enamel after consuming acidic foods or beverages.
  • Watch for Acid: After consuming acidic foods or drinks, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth (this will give your enamel a chance to re-harden).
  • Stay Hydrated: This is one of the most important tips on how to keep your teeth healthy and strong because saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth.
  • Use Fluoride Products: Fluoride reinforces enamel and is present in toothpaste and mouth rinses.

Fluoride Treatments in Your Dentist’s Office

  • Fluoride Varnishes and Gels: Your dentist can apply fluoride varnishes or gels to the teeth that can help strengthen enamel and reverse early signs of erosion.
  • Regular Dental Checkups: To prevent or treat tooth erosion, regular dental checkups are essential. With these biannual visits, your dentist will be able to check the health of your enamel, give professional cleanings, and provide personalized advice for achieving and maintaining strong, healthy teeth.

Tooth erosion is a preventable and treatable condition that can be tackled with good dietary habits or oral hygiene, as well as regular checks by a dentist. For residents of Show Low, AZ, this makes it especially important to protect enamel by avoiding or limiting certain foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and seeing your dentist regularly. Following these steps will help you keep your dental health and you will continue flaunting a bright, sturdy smile. If you think you do have tooth erosion, book an appointment with your local dentist to discuss what treatment would be best for you.