Dental Implants and Osseointegration: Tips and Information

Missing teeth can lead to many different dental health problems. To address the aesthetic and wellness issues associated with tooth loss, many patients have turned to dental implants at our Lincoln practice. These surgically implanted artificial tooth roots can support crowns, bridges, and dentures with an unmatched strength.

Osseointegration is a key part of implant dentistry success. Let's go into the basics of what this process is and then offer some tips on how patients can help ensure successful dental implant treatment as they recover.

What Is Osseointegration?

Osseointegration is the process by which the dental implant fuses with the jawbone, becoming one with the hard tissue of the mouth. This is an essential part of the implant dentistry process since it allows the artificial tooth root to function just like a natural tooth root. Without osseointegration, the process simply would not work.

Once the implant post has integrated with the bone structure, it is stable enough to support a crown, a bridge, or a set of dentures without absolute stability.

How Long Does Osseointegration Take?

Osseointegration takes several months to happen. After oral surgery, it's important to ensure the implant post heals properly and that nothing impedes proper healing or the fusion of the implant post. During follow-up visits with your dentist, the process can be monitored to ensure it's progressing properly.

Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol After Surgery

Tobacco products and alcohol consumption can lead to slower healing times and a greater risk of infection and complications. Even after initial healing is done, tobacco products could contribute to gum disease, which can be a major setback to your recovery. It's important that you avoid tobacco and alcohol for a few weeks before oral surgery. Patients should continue avoiding tobacco and alcohol for months after oral surgery as well to ensure optimal results.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Keeping the mouth clean helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral hygiene issues. Be sure to brush and floss regularly after oral surgery. That means brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a night. Ideally, consider brushing and flossing after ever meal.

Consider Use of an Antibacterial Mouthwash

To keep your mouth extremely clean and healthy, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing. It's a good way of avoiding infections and keeping your mouth sanitary. Consider a non-alcoholic mouthwash to keep your mouth clean while also avoiding dry mouth.

Drink Water to Stay Hydrated

Regular saliva production is key to having healthy teeth and gums. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking clean water throughout the day. This helps supplement your other oral hygiene practices and allows for the healthiest mouth possible as you recover from surgery.

Attend All Implant Dentistry Follow-Up Visits

Follow-up visits are key to ensuring proper treatment and long-term success. Be sure to attend all follow-ups as scheduled. These will help you have any issues monitored and keep you on the right track for a strong and relatively speedy recovery.

Learn More About Implant Dentistry

For more information about dental implants and whether or not they're an ideal option for you, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist today. We will work with you to improve the look of your smile and your overall dental wellness.

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