When it comes down to replacing your missing teeth, there are a few options, with the most popular being dental implants, dental bridges, and full or partial dentures. If you want the best treatment, dentists usually recommend dental implants. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants replace both the tooth and the root. This can help prevent a gap from causing your other teeth to shift. If you want to learn more about Dental implants, join us in this article from the Doctour website.
What are the types of dental implants?
Endosteal (in the bone)
The most common type of Dental implant includes screws, cylinders, or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant can hold one or more prosthetic teeth, generally used as an alternative for patients who are now wearing bridges or removable dentures.
Subperiosteal (on the bone)
This type of implant is placed on top of the jaw with metal framework posts that protrude through the gum to hold the implant in place. This type of implant is usually for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and don’t have adequate bone height to hold an endosteal implant.
How are dental implants done?
Dental implant surgeries are complex procedures involving a team of skilled dental surgeons. Treatment plans are tailored to the needs of each patient. The steps of this procedure are as follows:
A titanium root implant will be placed in the tooth socket. Healing with the gums for 12 weeks to be fully secured in place
A connecting post called an abutment is attached to the root. Anchoring the new tooth to the root.
An artificial tooth, resembling the original tooth is fixed to the root.
How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Based on where in the jaw the implants are placed, success rates vary, but in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
What are the pros of dental implants?
Appearance: Implants serve a cosmetic purpose by looking like your natural teeth
Speech: Dentures can slip from the teeth sockets and cause you to slur or mumble. Since dental implants are fused to your bone, you don’t have to worry about this problem.
Eating: When dentures are poorly fitted, chewing can be difficult. Since implants work like your own teeth, you can eat normally.
Self-esteem: If you are missing a tooth, it can prevent you from smiling in public. Implants can give you confidence in your smile.
Durability: When cared for properly, dental implants can last for years and don’t require much maintenance other than practicing good oral hygiene.
Convenience: Since permanent dental implants don’t need to be removed or kept in place with adhesives, they are more convenient than dentures.
Safety: In most cases, the procedure is safe and relatively painless. Some people may experience mild discomfort and irritation in the gums after the surgery, which appropriate medications can help with.
Who can get dental implants?
As long as you are healthy you’re a good candidate for dental implant surgery. Requirements include:
Healthy gums with enough bone to hold the implant
Good oral hygiene
No commodities such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
No heavy smoking
How Do I Care for Dental Implants?
Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dental implants offer a multitude of benefits that make them a popular choice for tooth replacement. They provide a natural look and feel, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth. Dental implants are durable and long-lasting, often serving their purpose for many years, if not a lifetime. They improve oral health by preventing bone loss in the jaw, maintaining the shape and structure of the face.
Dental implants also improve speech and comfort, as they stay firmly in place unlike removable dentures. They allow you to eat your favorite foods without hesitation, contributing to better overall health. Lastly, dental implants have a high success rate, making them a reliable solution for tooth loss. While the initial cost may be higher than other options, the long-term benefits of dental implants make them a worthwhile investment in your oral health.
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