Due to their 95% success rate, dental implants have become the go-to choice for replacing a missing tooth. With over 30 million Americans missing at least one tooth, it’s no wonder why dental implants are becoming so popular.
But, this is where it gets interesting: There is no need for a dental implant for every single missing tooth. You just need four strategically placed implants on the top and four on the bottom to get your complete smile. The beauty is in the placement and placement gives you a gorgeous full arch.
The question is, why should you get dental implants? Don’t they cost a lot just to transform your smile? Here, we will answer all your questions for you. Here is exactly what dental implants have in store for you.
Why Choose a Dental Implant?
Since implants are manufactured from titanium, they have a distinct ability to fuse with the living bone and become a part of it. Therefore, the implant will, eventually, get fused into the jawbone and provide a lasting, stable, and strong foundation for the new teeth.
One of the key benefits is the ability to prevent bone loss. When the dental implants get inserted into the jaw bone, they trigger osseointegration, which is a process for stimulating bone growth. These are the exact benefits you need for strengthening the bone mass, particularly around the site of the missing tooth.
Another reason you should choose dental implants is that they provide adequate facial structure support. If a person has multiple missing teeth, their mouth begins to sunken, and the bone loss is giving them a more aging appearance. That missing tooth area is affecting the entire structure of the face.
By maintaining the jaw bone in perfect shape, dental implants can preserve facial structure. This creates lasting and stable jaw function.
Dental Implant Types
To get a better understanding of dental implants, it is important to get familiar with the diverse types. The type of implants you can use greatly varies on your current jawbone health state. You can have:
- Endosteal – These implants are secured inside the jawbone. They look like tiny screws and are the most popular implants on the market. Acting as an artificial root, dental implants are meant to hold the replacement tooth and provide a stable surface.
- Subperiosteal – These implants are secured under the gum, above the jawbone. Anyone who doesn’t have the necessary amount of healthy natural jawbone will need these dental implants. This type is also popular among those who don’t want to get a bone augmentation procedure to fix the jawbone.
How Long Does Dental Implant Placement Last?
The time needed for implant placement will vary based on the technique used and the location of the missing tooth. Overall, it can take 1 hour per implant. The more implants you need, the longer the treatment will last. You will be surprised at how comfortable it is.
The procedure itself doesn’t cause any pain, since you will be under local or general anesthesia. The entire mouth feels numb. But, when the effects wear off, you might feel some mild discomfort or pain. Those who’ve tried it say it is less painful than having your tooth extracted.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you have healthy gums and a strong jaw bone, you can be a viable dental implant candidate. Those who suffer from bone loss from tooth abscesses or other dental problems, for example, gingivitis, might not be able to get this kind of tooth replacement.
For the product to offer adequate support, it requires solid bone density. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help keep the gums healthy and prevent infections. If you are a non-smoker, then the possibility for you to get an implant is much higher. That’s because smoking can affect the rejuvenation process. It also exposes the gums to infection and tooth damage.
To know for sure if you are a good dental implant candidate, consult with your dentist. They will evaluate your dental health and determine the cost of treatment. Although using many dental implants can turn into a costly procedure, every penny is well-spent. It can help you get the stunning smile you’ve always wanted and keep the teeth healthy at the same time.
Medical Disclaimer
It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.