Over the last two decades, dental implants have revolutionized our approach to lost and missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth (or multiple teeth), there’s a very good chance dental implants are a great choice for you.
The reason that implants are so revolutionary is that they don’t just replace the tooth above the gumline: they actually replace the tooth’s root as well as the tooth itself. This makes implants a more permanent and natural solution to missing teeth and a great alternative to removable dentures and bridges.
Dental implants are comfortable and natural looking and generally require less maintenance than dentures or bridges. They can replace one tooth or multiple teeth, and most dentists consider them by far the best option to replace a single missing tooth.
For many years, removable dentures or bridges attached to healthy teeth were the standard in replacing missing teeth. But loose dentures often make eating and speaking difficult. (Dentures rest on the gum line, while implants are attached to the jawbone, making them more comfortable and much more like natural teeth.)
A bridge is often a good option when one or two teeth are missing. But a bridge attaches to neighboring teeth and may damage those existing teeth (in many cases healthy teeth must be filed down to attach the bridge). Bridges are also more likely than implants to need replacement, while implants are far more long lasting. With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime and requires little maintenance beyond standard good oral hygiene.
Dental implants are made of titanium that is surgically implanted into the tooth socket. The metal “root” then fuses with the jawbone, which grows around the implant, integrating it into the bone and providing a stable and permanent foundation. (The wonder-metal titanium is the most commonly used metal in bone replacement procedures because it is not rejected by the body and generally integrates easily into the bone.) The titanium implant (which looks like a metal screw) acts like the tooth’s root, and is firmly anchored into the socket before the toothlike crown (the visible part of the implant) is attached. The healing process for an implant usually takes six to twelve weeks after which a crown (designed to look and feel like your natural tooth) is attached.
A dental implant procedure is generally done with local anesthesia and minimal discomfort for the patient. Once your implant and crown are in place, care for your implants just like you care for your real teeth, with brushing, flossing and regular checkups. You’ll find that chewing and speaking once again come very naturally, just as they did when your natural tooth was in place.
Almost everyone can be a candidate for dental implants. However, there are certain dental and medical issues that your dentist will take into account before coming up with your treatment plan.
A patient must have healthy gums and enough bone to integrate the implant. In cases where a patient has gum disease, treatment can often be undertaken to get the gums into good shape for the implant. In extreme cases where a patient has experienced significant bone loss, a bone graft may be an option to allow a dental implant procedure to be performed.
Heavy smokers and patients with certain medical conditions (including heart disease and diabetes) should be evaluated by their dentist before considering an implant procedure. But many patients with medical conditions are able to get implants with no adverse effects. You should also be sure to let your dentist know if you are taking any medications (even natural or herbal remedies), as these may affect the bone’s ability to integrate the implant.
The most important first step, even for those with no underlying health issues, is to schedule a preliminary consultation with your dentist. He’ll come up with a treatment plan and help you come up with the best approach to replacing your tooth.
Most dentists agree that dental implants are the wave of the future, and many insurance plans are now following suit and beginning to cover the procedure. Implants can save time and money in the long run as a permanent solution to tooth loss and will mean increased security and self-esteem for the patient. If you take great care of them, they’ll last a lifetime. And that means a lifetime of eating and speaking naturally and worry free.
At AlSaleh Dental Center, we understand that switching to a new dentist, or finding a new dentist for you or your family can be a worrisome task. You want to find someone who is professional, offers the services that you need or want, and provides a friendly and inviting atmosphere. We believe we meet that standard and beyond. Follow one of the steps below and have your most enjoyable dental visit ever!
