If you’re missing one or more teeth and are looking for a permanent tooth replacement option, then it might be time to consider dental implants.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. This option has become increasingly popular over recent years due to advances in technology and the many benefits of dental implants.
In this post, we’ll discuss what dental implants are, who is a good candidate for them, and the cost of dental implants. We’ll also dispel some common myths about dental implants. Keep reading to learn more!
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are exactly what they sound like. They’re a permanent tooth replacement option for people who are missing one or more teeth. Your natural tooth has a root that extends into your jawbone. The pressure of chewing has a chain reaction throughout the structure of your mouth. The chewing action puts pressure on your teeth, which then in turn stimulates your jawbone to keep your jaw strong and supportive.
When you lose a tooth, you also lose that connection between the tooth and your jaw. And, while you can get a replacement option such as a bridge or denture, neither of those will stimulate your jaw the way your natural tooth did. Without that stimulation, your jaw will slowly erode over time.
Dental implants have multiple parts designed to function as your natural tooth. They have a crown, which is the tooth structure above the gum line as well as an artificial root that extends into your jawbone to act as the root of your tooth. This artificial root stimulates your jawbone just as a natural tooth root would to prevent bone loss.
How are Dental Implants Installed?
The dental implant installation process is a multi-step surgery. The first step is to place the artificial root into your jawbone. This is done through a small incision in your gums. Once the artificial root is in place, your gums will be stitched up and you’ll be given time to heal.
After the area has healed, the next step is to install the abutment. The abutment connects the artificial tooth root to the crown. Once the abutment is in place, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth so that they can create a custom dental crown for you.
Once the dental crown is ready, you’ll come back in for one final appointment to have the crown placed on top of the abutment. And that’s it! You’ll have a brand new, permanent tooth that looks and functions just like your natural teeth.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
There are many benefits of dental implants that make them a great option for tooth replacement.
First, as we mentioned before, dental implants help to prevent bone loss in your jaw. They do this by stimulating the bone just as a natural tooth root would.
Second, dental implants are permanent. Unlike dentures or bridges, which can slip or come loose, dental implants are securely in place. You won’t have to worry about them coming out when you eat or speak.
Third, dental implants look and function just like your natural teeth. You can brush and floss them just as you would your regular teeth. And no one will be able to tell that they’re not your real teeth!
Fourth, dental implants are a great option for people who have allergies to denture adhesives. Because dental implants are permanently placed in your mouth, you won’t need to use any type of adhesive to keep them in place.
Finally, dental implants are low maintenance. Once they’re installed, you can care for them just as you would your regular teeth with brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups and cleanings.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
In order to be a good candidate for dental implants, you must have healthy gums and enough bone density in your jaw. You also need to be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene habits and attending regular dental checkups. If you smoke or have diabetes, you may not be a good candidate for dental implants due to an increased risk of complications.
What is the Cost of Dental Implants?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the complexity of the procedure. In general, dental implants cost more than other tooth replacement options such as dentures or bridges. However, they also last longer and provide a more natural-looking and functioning tooth replacement option.
Dental Implants Myths
There are many myths about dental implants. Some people believe that dental implants are painful or that they take a long time to heal. However, dental implants are actually no more painful than having a tooth extracted. The healing process for dental implants is typically around four to six weeks. Additionally, some people believe that dental insurance does not cover dental implants. However, many dental insurance plans do cover dental implants.
If you are considering dental implants, be sure to consult with your dentist to see if they are the right solution for you.