Are you one of the millions suffering from tooth loss? You’re not alone. In fact, over 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and about 40 million are completely edentulous.
While a few options are available to help those suffering from tooth loss, dental implants have become increasingly popular in recent years because of their many benefits.
If you’re considering dental implants, you should know a few things before deciding. In this article, we’ll look at dental implants, how they work, their benefits, and more.
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What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as a replacement for the root portion of a missing tooth. The implant is placed in the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone over several months.
Once the implant has fused with the bone, it can be used to support a dental crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental implants (including Full Arch Dental Implants) are ideal for those suffering from tooth loss because they provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth. Typically, dental implants have a success rate of over 95%.
Types of Dental Implants
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and are typically used to support a single dental crown. This type of implant is usually made of titanium.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone. They are typically used for patients with shallow jawbones and are not candidates for endosteal implants. This implant is usually made of a metal framework with metal posts that protrude through the gum.
Mini Implants
Mini implants are endosteal implants that are smaller in diameter than traditional ones. They are typically used to support a dental crown or bridge in the lower jaw and are less invasive to place.
How are dental implants installed?
1. The first step is to have a consultation with your dentist.
If you’re interested in dental implants, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. To determine if you’re a good candidate for implants, your dentist will take X-rays and 3D scans of your mouth.
These tests will help determine your jawbone’s size, shape, and density. Your dentist will also assess your gums to ensure they are healthy enough to support an implant.
2. The implant site will be prepared.
Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is to prepare the implant site. This involves making a small incision in the gum tissue and placing the implant into the jawbone.
3. The implant will be allowed to fuse with the bone.
After the implant has been placed, it will take several months for it to fuse with the bone. You will need to avoid putting any pressure on the implant site during this time. However, you can eat and drink as normal.
4. The implant will be checked for osseointegration.
After the implant has had time to fuse with the bone, your dentist will check to see if it has osseointegrated. This is a process where the implant and bone have bonded together.
5. The implant will be used to support a dental restoration.
Once the implant has osseointegrated, it can be used to support a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth and then use this to create your custom restoration.
6. The restoration will be placed on the implant.
Finally, your custom dental restoration will be placed on the implant. This can be done in one or two visits, depending on the type of restoration you are getting.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants have many benefits, which is why they have become such a popular solution for tooth loss patients. Some of the benefits of dental implants include:
They provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
Because dental implants are made of titanium, they are very strong and durable. This makes them an ideal solution for those looking for a long-term solution to tooth loss.
They are natural looking.
Unlike dentures, which can often look artificial, dental implants look just like your natural teeth. This makes them a much more aesthetic option for those concerned about their appearance.
They’re easy to care for.
Dental implants are very easy to care for and maintain. You simply brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. There’s no need for special cleaning solutions or adhesives.
They help to preserve bone in the jaw.
When you lose teeth, the bone in your jaw begins to erode. Dental implants prevent this through a process called osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone.
They’re a long-term solution.
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. This makes them a much more cost-effective solution in the long run than dentures or bridges, which will need to be replaced every few years.
They are more comfortable than other options, such as dentures.
With dental implants, you don’t have to worry about your teeth slipping or moving around in your mouth. This makes them a much more comfortable option than dentures, which can often be irritating and uncomfortable.
They provide better chewing function.
Dental implants are very strong and allow you to chew your food just like your natural teeth. This is a major benefit for those who have trouble chewing with dentures.
Who can get dental implants?
Several factors need to be considered before you can get dental implants. These include:
The health of your gums
To get dental implants, you need to have healthy gums. This is because the implant will be placed directly into the gum tissue. If you have gum disease, it will need to be treated before you can get dental implants.
The density of your jawbone
Another factor that needs to be considered is the density of your jawbone. For the implant to fuse with the bone, the bone must be dense enough. If it isn’t, you may need a bone graft before you can get dental implants.
Your overall health
It’s also important to consider your overall health before getting dental implants. This is because some conditions can make it difficult for the implant to fuse with the bone, such as diabetes.
You must be committed to oral hygiene.
If you want to get dental implants, you must be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
You must be willing to wait.
Getting dental implants can take several months from start to finish. This is because the implant needs to fuse with the bone, which can take several months.
What are the risks of dental implants?
Like with any surgery, there are some risks involved with dental implants. These include:
Infection
Since the implant is placed directly into the gums, there is a risk of infection. This is why it’s important to ensure that you have healthy gums before getting dental implants.
Nerve damage
There is also a risk of nerve damage when getting dental implants. This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the teeth, gums, lips, or chin.
Sinus problems
Another potential complication is sinus problems. This can occur when the implant is placed too close to the sinus cavity. This can cause pain and pressure in the sinuses.
Conclusion
Dental implants are a great option for those missing one or more teeth. They’re easy to care for, provide better chewing function, and are a long-term solution. However, there are some risks involved with the procedure. Be sure to talk to your dentist to see if dental implants are right for you.