Dental implants have evolved significantly over the past several decades. Today, dental implants are not only safe and effective solutions for missing teeth, but they also help patients live fuller and healthier lives.
In this article we discuss what dental implants are, what types of procedures they’re used for and whether or not you’re a candidate for them. We also answer some frequently asked questions about dental implants.
Let’s get started!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a modern solution for replacing missing teeth. They’re made of titanium and placed in the jaw, where they effectively take the place of your natural teeth. Implants are often used to restore function to your smile and give you back your confidence, as well as to help prevent bone loss in your jawline.
Types of Dental Implant Procedures
There are several different types of dental implant procedures available to you, depending on the type of implant that you need. If you’re considering getting a dental implant, your dentist will likely suggest one of the following options:
Endosteal
This is the most common type of dental implant procedure. The dentist will first remove the damaged tooth and create a space for the implant, which is then secured in place with a crown. This option is recommended if you want to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible and still have an attractive smile.
Subperiosteal
The subperiosteal dental implant procedure is a less invasive alternative to the traditional method of placing implants. It involves placing an implant in the jawbone and then covering it with a flap of soft tissue from the gum. This results in fewer complications and shorter recovery times than other types of procedures.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are used in situations where the jawbone has been lost or damaged due to injury or disease. These implants are made of titanium and are designed to be anchored into the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone). They are very strong and have an excellent ability to bond with the surrounding bone.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
When you’re considering dental implants, you want to know that they’re going to be a good fit. But what does it take to be a good candidate?
First, you need to have healthy gums. If your gums are inflamed or receding, it can affect the placement and healing process of your implant.
Second, you need to have great oral health and hygiene habits. Dental implants require careful cleaning, so if you have poor oral hygiene habits, the risk of complications is higher.
Third, you should be in good general health—no diabetes or heart disease should be present. And finally, if you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco products regularly, an implant will not be recommended for you until these habits cease for at least 6 months before having an implant installed.
What Can I Expect From Dental Implant Surgery?
“I’m interested in having a dental implant. What can I expect?”
It’s a question we hear all the time, and it’s one that we’re happy to answer. Here are the basic steps of what you can expect from dental implant surgery:
- Initial consultation
- Dental implant placement
- Osseointegration (bone healing)
- Abutment placement (attachment of permanent teeth)
- Custom-make and attach new teeth
- Periodic check-ups
FAQS
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental Gel are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. They are made from titanium, which is a metal known for its strength and durability. The implant is placed in the jawbone, where it fuses with surrounding bone tissue over time. Once this fusion happens, the implant can be used to anchor artificial teeth.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Dental Implant?
The cost of a dental implant will vary depending on the number of implants you need, the type of implant material, and any additional procedures that are required.
A single implant can range from $1,500 to $6,000. The cost will increase if you have multiple implants done at once or if there are other procedures required before or during the placement of your dental implants.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. They can help you eat, speak and smile with confidence.
Benefits include:
- Improved chewing ability
- Improved ability to speak clearly
- Ability to eat more foods that require biting
- Ability to maintain perfect oral health
When Is a Patient Too Young for a Dental Implant?
The answer to this question is simple: never.
Dental implants are designed to offer you a permanent solution to your missing tooth, so as long as you have enough bone in your jaw (and we can determine that through an X-ray) you are a candidate for dental implants.
There is no age limit on getting dental implants, but there are some factors that may affect the success of your implant and how long it lasts.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The treatment time for dental implants varies based on the number of implants you need, but most patients can expect to be in the dentist’s chair for a few hours while the procedure is completed. Remember, two days following your procedure, begin brushing the implant site using a quality dental get and soft bristles toothbrush. Brush the front, back, sides, and top areas of the implant site. DO NOT use an electric toothbrush. Do NOT floss the surgical area for 2 weeks.
