Do you have a missing tooth or teeth that make it difficult to eat or talk? You might want to consider dental implants as a possible solution. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots, offering strength and stability to support a prosthetic tooth or bridge. They are the most natural and reliable way of replacing missing teeth! Here, we discuss some amazing things you should know about dental implants.
What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
Long-Term Durability
Dental implants are strong and reliable, and when placed correctly, they can last a lifetime. In contrast, dentures and bridges must be replaced every few years. Additionally, dental implants do not suffer from the same wear and tear as natural teeth, so they remain strong and durable for many years to come.
Improved Oral Health
When you receive
dental implants, your gums don’t have to be cut down like they are for bridges and dentures. This means that the surrounding natural teeth remain intact and your overall oral health is improved. Additionally, implants help stimulate bone growth and prevent jawbone deterioration, which can occur when teeth are missing.
Improved Appearance
Dental implants look and feel almost indistinguishable from your natural teeth, so you can continue to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Once in place, they’ll feel like your own teeth and you won’t have to worry about them slipping out of place or affecting your speech.
What is the Procedure for Placing Dental Implants?
Preparing the Implant Site
Your dentist will first need to prepare the implant site, which includes drilling a hole in your jawbone. Then, they will place a titanium post into the hole and secure it in place. Over the next few months, your jawbone will fuse around the post to create a strong foundation for the implant.
Attaching the Abutment and Prosthetic Tooth
Once your jawbone has healed, you will return to the dentist for a follow-up visit. At this time, your dentist will attach an abutment—a connector piece between the implant and prosthetic tooth—and then place the new artificial tooth on top of it.
Aftercare
Your dentist will likely prescribe you antibiotics and painkillers after your implant procedure. Additionally, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly for check-ups to ensure that your implant is in optimal shape.
FAQs:
Q1. How long do dental implants last?
A1. When placed correctly, dental implants can last for many years or even a lifetime!
Q2. Are there any risks associated with dental implants?
A2. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with dental implant surgery, including infection and nerve damage. Speak to your dentist about these risks before deciding if a dental implant is right for you.
Q3. How much do dental implants cost?
A3. The price of a dental implant varies depending on the treatment plan and location, but generally ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 for a single implant.
Conclusion:
Dental implants offer a reliable way of replacing missing teeth, improving your overall oral health and helping you speak, eat and smile with confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants, be sure to speak with a qualified dentist about the procedure and its associated risks.