Dentists consider implants today's best option for tooth replacement. They are attractive, long-lasting, and beneficial for oral health.
While dental implants have increased in popularity, many patients are unfamiliar with the procedure. They may feel intimidated by implant surgery or have questions about the benefits they can expect.
This blog explores how dental implants work and how they can improve your smile and safeguard your oral health.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are unique among tooth replacement techniques because they bond directly with the patient's jawbone, creating a solid, stable base. They are also the only form of tooth replacement that strengthens the jawbone and prevents facial sagging often associated with missing teeth.
How Dental Implants Work
Single-tooth dental implants consist of three parts: the implant anchor, the abutment, and the crown. Your dentist surgically places the small, biocompatible anchor in your jawbone and allows it to create a tight bond over time.
Once the implant anchor is stable, the dentist places an abutment, which fits over the anchor like a cap, to connect it to the crown.
After the gum heals around the abutment, the dentist can install your crown and complete the tooth replacement process.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Comfortable
Unlike traditional dentures, implants do not slip, click, or trap food. They feel very much like natural teeth.
Long-Lasting
With excellent care, the implant anchor itself may last for decades or even a lifetime. However, the crown, bridge, or denture attached to it may occasionally need replacement.
High Success Rate
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95 percent. Implant failure cases are rare and often related to poor oral hygiene. If you take good care of your implants and visit your dentist for regular cleanings, you should have long-lasting results.
Attractive Appearance
Dental implants blend beautifully with your smile. They can increase your self-confidence, giving others a positive impression. If you've hidden your smile due to missing, damaged, or discolored teeth, dental implants will help you share it with the world.
Protect Oral Health
Dental implants bond with the jawbone in osseointegration, providing chewing stimulation equivalent to a natural tooth. This stimulation keeps the jawbone healthy and prevents atrophy.
Restore Chewing Function
Chewing around gaps and damaged teeth can be disheartening. With dental implants, you will be able to eat anything you like without worry.
Types of Dental Implants
- Single-Tooth Dental Implants: A single-tooth dental implant replaces one tooth and its root.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges use implants to replace a few teeth at a time. They improve on standard bridges by anchoring each end with an implant.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures can be complete or partial. Depending on your needs, you can opt for removable or permanent dentures. We can provide permanent full-arch dentures with as few as four anchoring implants.
Good Candidates for Dental Implants
The best candidates for dental implants share the following characteristics:
- Adults of any age can receive implants with no upper limit
- Healthy gums
- No untreated decay
- Robust jawbone strength or ability to receive a bone graft if needed
- Healthy enough to undergo a surgical procedure
- No conditions that impede healing (uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, tobacco use)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long does it take to get dental implants?
The entire process takes months, with healing periods between each step. The time investment is worth it when you consider how long these appliances last and how much they improve your oral health.
How uncomfortable is dental implant surgery?
Patients may hesitate to ask their doctor about implants because they feel wary of the surgical process. However, most patients report that the surgery is far more manageable than they expected. Local anesthesia prevents pain during surgery, while over-the-counter medications are often sufficient for post-surgical discomfort.
Carmel Dental Associates is an award-winning full-service dental practice offering general, restorative, and cosmetic procedures as well as dental implants. If you have any questions, please contact Carmel Dental Associates to schedule a consultation with our expert doctors today.