What to Consider Before Getting Dental Implants

In an ideal world, our teeth would last us a lifetime. Unfortunately, tooth loss is a very common problem. In fact, studies estimate that at least 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and a whopping 40 million are missing all of their teeth. Unsurprisingly, the impact of tooth loss varies depending on how many teeth you are missing and where in your mouth they are located.



Nevertheless, missing teeth can affect how well you can bite and chew food, as well as how you speak. And many people with gaps in their teeth state that they feel self-conscious or even embarrassed about the appearance of their smile. Fortunately, thanks to dental innovation there is no need to live with missing teeth. While there is a range of tooth replacement options available, one of the most effective and popular is dental implants.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the only standalone tooth replacement solution currently available. What this means is that they don’t rely on or impact any surrounding teeth. Instead, the unique design of dental implants means that they are supported by the jaw bone.

Dental implants have two main parts. These are a small metal screw or post, called the implant, and a custom-designed crown. The two are secured together using a connector called an abutment. In dental implants, the metal screw or post is surgically placed into the bone of the jaw below where the missing tooth was, acting as a replacement root. The bone heals around it to secure it permanently in place in a process known as osseointegration. The success of this process underpins the overall success of treatment. It takes a few months, after which time bespoke crowns can be made to form the visible part of the solution. Dental implant technology can be used to replace a single tooth or support a bridge, partial denture, or full denture.

What to Consider Before Dental Implants

Dental implants are extremely effective and successful. The implant post itself is made from biocompatible titanium which means that it isn’t rejected by the body, and once implants are successfully in place, they can last upwards of 20 years with the right care and attention. However, they aren’t necessarily the right or best solution for every patient. Here are a few things to consider before you get dental implants.

Healthy Bones

The success of dental implants relies on your jawbone healing around the implant posts. For this to happen, you need to have enough healthy bone in your jaw to start with. This is something that will be assessed by your dental implant provider prior to you being accepted as a candidate.

Long Process

Sadly, in most instances, dental implants aren’t a quick fix for replacing missing teeth. Osseointegration takes around 4 months to complete, and while your gums will be sealed over them until this happens, you aren’t going to get a new smile overnight. You’ll need to be committed to the process.

Dental Implants Require Surgery

If you want to reap the benefits of dental implants, you’ll need to understand that getting them requires surgery. It’s performed using a local anesthetic, and you may be eligible for sedation if you need it, but you’ll still need to prepare for a few days or more of discomfort and soft food while your mouth heals.

Give Up Smoking

If you currently smoke, you may not be approved for dental implants. This is because people who smoke are most likely to suffer from gum disease and gum recession – two things that can put dental implants at risk. If you can give up smoking and you don’t currently suffer from gum disease, your dental implant provider may be prepared to go ahead, but only if you can quit!

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are a variety of reasons why many more people are choosing dental implants over other tooth replacement solutions. Here’s just a few:
 

• Implants help to avoid jawbone deterioration
   

• You can eat whatever foods you like without worrying that your teeth will pull out
   

• Dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth
   

• They are more durable and long-lasting than dentures
   

• They are more comfortable too
   

• Dental implants can restore the strength of your teeth and jaw
   

• They are an excellent investment in your long-term smile

If you would like more information about dental implants, visit Attuned Dental Care in Milpitas, CA. Call 408-263-3090 to schedule an appointment today.