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Dental Implants For Tooth Replacement
If you have missing teeth then you may want to look into dental implants to help fill the spaces. Held in place with a tiny titanium rod implanted into the patient’s jaw bone, the implant serves as the root of the artificial tooth.
Titanium is used because this type of metal can bond with the bone. Titanium implants are very stable, secure tooth replacements. We then cap the dental implant with a dental crown, which looks like a natural tooth.
These two pieces fit together and behave like your natural teeth.
What are the main dental implant advantages?
If you are considering dental implants then you may be wondering what the main advantages are:
Versatility Allowing For Options
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. We can combine implants with other treatment options such as a bridge or denture.
Your specific case and requirements, in addition to the density of your jaw bone, will determine the number of actual implants you need/can get. Because they are able to fit into many different areas, they have become a popular choice.
Can Last For Years
Provided you properly care for your dental implant, it can last a lifetime. A proper at-home oral care routine is a must, as are regular visits to your dental office for cleanings and exams.
Other factors including nutrition, genetics or the development of dental diseases can also impact the longevity of your dental implant.
Able to Blend in With Your Teeth
You will have a bridge or crown placed along with your implant which will create the appearance of your natural teeth.
No one should be able to tell that you have artificial teeth and that you can eat, speak and function as you did before while enjoying the quality of life. Since there are no nerves in a dental implant, you will not feel sensations.
Instead, any feelings you experience related to your dental implant will come from the soft tissue around the implant. After your implant has healed and you’ve gotten used to it, you most likely will notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Allow For Easy Dental Hygiene
Similar to bridges, crowns or other restorations, you can care for your dental implants just like your natural teeth. You will need to follow a daily oral hygiene routine including brushing and flossing and attend your routine dental appointments.
Are there any disadvantages to dental implants?
Depending on the nature of your case, dental implants may not be for you. Here are some of the commonly mentioned drawbacks of dental implants:
A Longer Process to Complete
While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, the dental implant process is lengthier and more invasive than that required for having a dental bridge placed.
Based on the specifics of your treatment plan and your smile needs, the entire dental implant procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to complete.
More Expensive Than Other Options
Depending on your insurance coverage and specific dental issue, the cost of dental implants can vary. Insurance policies differ enormously. Some insurance companies pay part of the cost of dental implants whereas others may cover the entire cost of the procedure and still others may not pay for any part of it.
You should speak with your insurance provider to find out if they are covered.
You Might Require Other Procedures First
Beyond the items listed above, you must also have enough density in your jawbone to support the addition of dental implants. If your jaw is thin or weak, you may still be a candidate for the procedure but first you will need to undergo a bone graft to transplant bone to your jaw, giving it the additional strength required to support implants. This additional step would make the process longer and more invasive.
Will I know if dental implants are right for me?
While dental implants, bridges and other restorations all have their benefits, the right choice for you will depend on your oral health needs, budget and other factors.
After performing a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums and other oral structures, your dentist will be able to work with you to determine the best tooth replacement option to meet your needs.