How Implant-Based Restorations Are Similar To Natural Teeth

If you have lost a tooth, your dentist may use a dental implant as the foundation for your tooth-replacement. The implant, which is a small, titanium rod-like device is placed in your jawbone to replace the roots of your missing tooth.

After the dental implant is in position, and the resulting wound has healed properly, the dentist applies a connector and a dental crown to complete the restorative process.

A dental implant-based tooth restoration looks and performs like a natural tooth.

Here are a few ways in which implant-based restorations are similar to natural teeth.

They Can Handle Normal Bite Pressure

Like a natural tooth, a dental implant can withstand the normal bite pressure associated with mastication. The device is stabilized by its integration with the bone tissue of the jawbone. This connection occurs through a healing process called osseointegration and prevents your dental implant from shifting out of place from the pressure of normal chewing.

They Stimulate the Jawbone

A natural tooth transfers bite pressure to the bone of the jaw. This pressure stimulates the jawbone to encourage the formation of new bone cells. Consequently, the steady production of new cells helps the jawbone to maintain its thickness.

Because a dental implant is also positioned in the bone of the jaw, it too transfers stimulating pressure to the jawbone. Thus, it can help the jawbone avoid atrophy.

They Should Be Brushed Regularly

A natural tooth requires regular brushing to prevent the development of decay.

The false tooth of an implant-based restoration should also be brushed regularly.  The replacement tooth cannot decay. However, plaque can accumulate on its surface to incite decay in natural tooth material that is adjacent to the device.

The Areas Around Them Should Be Flossed Daily

Flossing around a natural tooth can help prevent gum disease. Harmful oral microbes in dental plaque produce acid that causes cavities and inflames the gingival tissues. Flossing helps clear the plaque from along the gum line and from in between the teeth.

The area around a dental implant-based restoration should also be flossed daily. The inflammation of the gingival tissues around an implant can lead to a condition called peri-implantitis, which is a form of gum disease that can prevent an implant wound from healing properly.

To learn more about dental implant restorations and their similarities to natural teeth, schedule a consultation with a dental provider in your local area.