What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a replacement tooth or denture. Dental implants are typically made of titanium, which bonds well with bone. They can be used to support single artificial teeth, multiple teeth, dentures, and other dental prostheses.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure involves multiple steps. First, an impression is taken of the patient’s teeth and jaw to help plan the procedure. Implant surgeons then perform a small surgical operation to place screw-like replacements for the roots of missing teeth into the jawbone. Titanium dental implants fuse to living bone over several months, forming a strong and stable base for replacement teeth.
After sufficient time for healing and implant integration, the dental crown or Dental Implants bridge is attached to the implant. This final restoration provides a natural look and feel like natural teeth. For patients requiring multiple implants in both jaws, a temporary removable denture or bridge can be worn while implants integrate during the healing period.
Benefits
They provide several benefits compared to other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges. Implants are the closest option available to natural teeth in function and aesthetics. They do not have to be removed at night like dentures. Properly placed and maintained implants can last decades without replacing.
Some key benefits of it include:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants and tooth replacements sit directly on the implant, providing a natural appearance and feel like actual teeth when eating, speaking, or smiling.
- Secure Bite and Chew Function: Implants fused to the jawbone are securely anchored and can withstand normal chewing forces like natural teeth. This makes eating and speech much easier and comfortable.
- Prevent Bone Loss: Beneath dentures, the jawbone can gradually shrink away over time. They stabilize the bone, preventing further shrinkage that weakens the jaw.
- Improved Oral Health: Implants do not have gaps under them where food and plaque can collect like bridges or dentures. This reduces the risk of oral diseases affecting the surrounding soft tissues and underlying bone.
- Self-Esteem Boost: Having missing teeth can significantly affect confidence and self-esteem. Dental implants restore a full natural smile without the limitations of removable prostheses.
- Durability: When properly cared for and professionally maintained over the years, high-quality it can last decades without replacement. This greatly reduces long-term costs compared to repeated denture changes.
Candidacy for Dental Implants
Not everyone is a candidate for it. Important factors include:
- Adequate Bone Volume: There must be enough jawbone present and of good quality to securely anchor and support the implant. Additional procedures may be needed to augment jawbone in some cases.
- General Health Status: Certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or diseases affecting bone metabolism could affect implant healing. Candidates should be non-smokers in good overall health.
- Oral Hygiene: Patients must demonstrate an ability to maintain excellent oral hygiene, as poor plaque control can lead to complications. Implant treatments have higher long-term success rates in patients who brush and floss regularly.
- Gum Disease: Patients with severe periodontitis face higher risks, so disease must be brought under control through non-surgical treatments before implants.
- Realistic Expectations: Candidates must understand implants still require lifelong care and have limitations. While very durable, complications or failures are still possible in a small percentage of cases.
Alternatives
Alternatives exist depending on individual dental and medical considerations.
Fixed Bridge: This involves crowning adjacent natural teeth at either end and affixing a false tooth in the span. Less expensive initially but carries higher long-term risks as it affects remaining natural teeth.
Removable Partial Denture: This snaps onto metal frameworks or cores on adjacent teeth and does not require surgery. However, its unstable fit and need for frequent relines negatively impact function and self-esteem.
Complete Denture: Made of plastic with an acrylic base, it snaps over the gums but does not require tooth structure preparation. However, issues with retention, stability, and an unnatural appearance limit function significantly.
Tooth-Supported Denture: This combines a complete denture with attachments or dental implants for better retention. More stable than a standard denture but still removable.
The Decision for Implants
It can provide a permanent, fixed tooth replacement solution with a high degree of function and natural appearance. While a larger initial cost, they save money in the long run by not requiring replacement of interim prosthetics. Individual dental health conditions and financial circumstances determine the best restoration option. Consulting an experienced dental implant surgeon helps make an informed choice.
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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