Are you wondering if dental implants are right for you? Dental implants have become the preferred choice of many people looking to restore their smile. In 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, 3 million dental implants were placed in the United States and that number has increased year on year. However, while dental implants are renowned for their durable, natural-looking appearance, they’re not for everyone. This article explains more about dental implants and the procedure, to give you a better idea of their suitability for you. But first, let’s touch briefly on what is meant by a dental implant.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, usually made from titanium, and surgically placed into the jawbone. The process involves the jawbone fusing with the implant to form a stable base that can support one or more artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges or dentures.
So, now we’re all on the same page, let’s dive in and look at some of the top signs that could suggest dental implants are right for you.
#1 You are missing one, several, or all of your natural teeth
The best thing about dental implants is that however many teeth you may be missing, there’s an implant solution.
- A single implant topped with a dental crown can replace a single missing tooth.
- An implant-supported bridge can replace several adjacent missing teeth.
- Implant-supported dentures can replace all of the teeth missing in either arch or both arches.
Provided you meet all the criteria for implants, it doesn’t matter how many teeth you are missing.
#2 You have a healthy mouth
A pre-requisite before getting dental implants is to be on top of your oral health. In other words, your gums should be healthy and there should be no signs of cavities or infections in any remaining teeth.
#3 You have adequate bone density
Like natural teeth, dental implants rely on the jawbone to keep them in place. Unfortunately, when teeth are missing, the bone that kept them in place is resorbed by the body meaning there may not be sufficient bone to place an implant in that area of the jaw where a tooth is missing. While it’s possible for your dentist to perform a bone graft to increase bone density, this will add additional time and cost to the overall procedure.
#4 You are committed to a long process
The dental implant procedure involves several stages with healing in between which means that from start to finish the procedure can take between six and nine months to complete. If you require tooth extraction, an alveoplasty or bone grafting, then this will add even more time. Getting dental implants takes way longer than bridges or dentures, so you must be willing to commit to this process.
#5 You are a non-smoker or prepared to cease the habit
People who smoke or chew tobacco face a greater risk of infection following implant surgery and may heal more slowly. Furthermore smoking can cause an implant to fail. That’s because smoking slows down blood flow to the bones and tissues surrounding the gums and teeth which can prevent the implant post from fusing with the bone.
#6 You have the budget for dental implants
Dental implants are typically more expensive upfront than bridges or dentures although their longevity often makes them cost-effective in the long term. At Mint Dental we do our best to make dental implants affordable for our patients by offering finance plans.
So now you have a better idea of whether dental implants are right for you, you may be wondering how they will benefit you.
The advantages of dental implants
- Natural feel and look: Dental implants mimic natural teeth in functionality and form, and because the crowns are color-matched to the remaining teeth they blend seamlessly into the smile.
- Longevity: Studies have reported a dental implant success rate of 90-95% over a period of 10 years. With good oral care, your implants could last your lifetime.
- Prevention of bone loss: Tooth loss can lead to bone deterioration. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving the shape of the jaw.
- Enhanced comfort: Because implants are secured into the jawbone they feel more comfortable than traditional dentures and give you the confidence to eat, speak and chew without fear of slippage.
- Improved oral health: Unlike traditional bridges, dental implants don’t require adjacent teeth to be ground down for support. This preserves the integrity of your natural teeth and promotes overall oral health.
The implant procedure – what to expect
The implant process is carried out in stages. Here’s what happens:
Step 1 – Consultation and planning
The dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your medical history and take scans or X-rays to determine your suitability for treatment.
Step 2 – Placement of the implant
The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia and with computer-guided surgery, can be completed in as little as 20 minutes per implant. Depending on the implant’s location, you might be provided with a temporary crown or denture during the healing period.
Step 3 – Osseointegration
Over the next few months, the implant should fuse with the jawbone to form a secure and stable platform to support an artificial tooth.
Step 4 – Installation of the crown
Once healing is complete, a custom crown is attached to the implant post restoring full functionality and aesthetics.
Dental implants: Are they right for you?
There’s only one way to tell for sure. Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Mint Dental in Anchorage. We understand that all our patient’s needs are unique and will work closely with you to customise a treatment plan that meets your goals.
Don’t let missing teeth prevent you from enjoying life to the full. We’ll help you restore your smile and confidence with friendly, modern dental care. Call us today at (907) 313-1868.
