Protecting your teeth

Dental implants have added a new method to dentistry. Dental implant is replacement of the tooth root placed in the jaw, to hold the replaced tooth. Dental implants are rooted in the jawbone and are better than traditional bridge work.

They don’t rely on the neighboring tooth. It is helpful for people with good oral health but, those who have lost a tooth due to periodontal disease or accident. They secure the crown, (i.e. the part of the tooth) which is seen in the mouth and dentures in different ways. They are made of titanium which is light and biocompatible. Thus, they are accepted by the body. When there is a tooth loss the bone that supports the tooth also loses. The foundation of the success of dental implants is that the titanium fuses with the bone.

Dental implants not only replace the lost teeth but maintain the shape and density of the jawbone. They thus support the facial skeleton, gum tissues, lips and cheeks. Dental implants replace tooth without affecting the neighboring teeth.

Gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis are some dental problems that many people experience. If these diseases are left without treatment they can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is harmful to the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It starts with the bacteria in the plaque and leads to gum inflammation. We might not realize but our mouth is filled with bacteria. Bacteria along with mucus keep on forming a sticky material called “plaque” on the teeth. Plaque is removed by brushing and flossing. If this plaque remains untreated or not removed it hardens and forms “tartar”. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone. Only a dentist can remove it. Gingivitis is a milder form of periodontal disease. In this stage gums swell, bleed and become red. One faces this due to inappropriate oral hygiene. This can be cured by maintaining good oral home care or with professional treatment. This type of gum disease doesn’t include loss of tissue or bone that holds the teeth.

When gingivitis is not treated on time it results into advanced periodontitis. In this form of gum disease, gums pull away from the teeth and spaces are formed. These spaces are then infected. The bacteria spread below the gums. This further breaks down the bone and connective tissue that keeps the teeth firm. If this is not treated in time the gums, tissues and the bones that hold the teeth are affected badly. The tooth becomes loose and has to be removed.

Gum diseases need to be checked on time otherwise the tooth has to be removed and a dental implant becomes inevitable.