Dental implant surgery is a common option for replacing missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures that rest on the gum line, dental implants are a long-term treatment that is surgically implanted into the jaw. These implanted, artificial teeth look like real teeth and have the same functionality as well. They are a more permanent solution to ordinary dentures and bridgework.

Dental implants are implanted into the jawbone where they replace the roots of the teeth that are missing. The implants contain titanium that, when implanted into the jaw, fuses with the jawbone. Once fusion occurs, the dental implants hold firmly in place, they do not slip or make noise. There are different types of dental implants available and the way that dental implant surgery is performed will depend on the type of implant that is chosen as well as the condition of the jaw.

Yes! Unlike traditional dentures and bridgework, dental implants do not cause any damage to the bone. Additionally, all of the material used for dental implants are safe and do not cause any decay. Still, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, should check with their health care provider prior to having dental implant surgery. Fortunately, most individuals with these conditions will receive the green light for the procedure, as long as certain precautions are met. Dental implant surgery is not recommended for children as their jaws have not yet reached full growth.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some health risks associated with dental implant surgery. Complications are relatively rare and when they do occur they are generally mild, requiring minimal treatment. Possible health risks associated with dental implant surgery include:

Some individuals will require a bone graft surgery prior to having dental implant surgery. This is common in individuals who have a jawbone that is too soft or is not thick enough to sustain the implant. During a bone graft, a piece of bone is taken from a different part of the jaw or another part of the body and is transplanted to the jawbone.

These side effects are relatively mild and often improve shortly. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or pain medications. You will be instructed to eat only soft foods for up to one week. Self-dissolving stitches are typically used.

Unfortunately, dental implant surgery is not always successful. If the bone does not fuse to the implant, it will have to be removed and the procedure can be repeated. Still, this is incredibly rare. Maintaining good oral hygiene after dental implant surgery can help decrease the risk of complications and problems that may arise with dental implants.

A comprehensive dental exam and evaluation is required before the procedure can take place. This will include dental x-rays and taking a mold of the mouth to make a model of the mouth. A variety of specialists, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists and doctors will help to create your personal treatment plan.

Prior to the surgery, you will have the chance to discuss with your doctor the different anesthesia options available. You will have a choice of local, general or sedation anesthesia. Together with your dental specialist and health care team you can determine which option is the best choice for you.

Last week, we covered a list of foods that cause bad breath. This week, the Preferred Dental team provides the antidote! Discover why certain foods cure bad breath and keep your friends around. Happy eating!

OK, its not technically a food, but its a critical weapon in the war against bad breath. When you drink water, you flush the bacteria and lingering food bits out of your teeth, making it impossible for that bacteria to take root. Moreover, drinking water boosts production of saliva in your mouth, keeping everything fresh and clean.

Chewing a stick of gum after eating can help to free food particles and dead cells from your teeth, tongue, and gums. It can also help to increase saliva flow. This article from Popular Science explains the chemistry behind it check it out! Just two tips for gum-chewing: 1) Stick to sugarless (remember what we said about sugary foods?). 2) Dont recycle gum find your own. ????

Crunchy vegetable lovers of the world, unite! It turns out that crunchy produce like red bell peppers and broccoli can break food and bacteria free from their strongholds in your mouth. Since theyre mechanically abrasive, they dont get along with the things that are trying to make your teeth a new home. One more reason to get your five servings a day!

Ever heard of antioxidants? Theyre substances that stop oxidation and growth of bacteria, and tea is full of em! Did you know that for centuries green tea leaves have been used as deodorants? In the same way that green tea leaves fend off funky odors, the chemicals in green tea work to destroy the growth of odor-causing bacteria in your mouth.

There you go just a few of the surprising cures of bad breath! Put an end to halitosis by incorporating some of these foods into your diet on a regular basis. And be sure to stop back next week for more simple oral health advice!