What Are Dental Implants?

If you are missing a few teeth, it can make you feel self-conscious about your smile, so it’s a good idea to start thinking about dental implants. Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and give you back your confidence. But what exactly is a dental implant? 

While a lot goes into getting them, they are fake teeth that an oral surgeon places into your jawbone. However, before you decide to get a dental implant, it is crucial to understand how they work entirely!

Dental Implants vs. Natural Teeth

Implants are a popular tooth replacement option for people who are missing one or more teeth. Unlike natural teeth anchored in the jawbone by roots, implants are metal posts that are surgically implanted in the jawbone. After the implant heals and fuses with the bone, a replacement tooth (called a crown) is attached to the implant.

Implants are an attractive option because they look and function just like natural teeth. In addition, they are relatively durable and can last for many years with proper care. However, implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. As a result, they may not be an option for everyone.

When Should You Consider Dental Implants?

Implants provide a more secure and permanent solution for tooth loss. However, dental implants are not suitable for everyone. The first step is to consult with a qualified dental professional to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. There are many factors to consider: your gums’ health, what teeth you are missing, the density of your jawbone, and overall oral health.

If Your Missing Teeth

Dental implants are one of the most effective solutions for people who are missing multiple teeth. An oral surgeon will place the implants in the jawbone, fusing with the bone and acting as a new tooth root. This provides a strong foundation for artificial teeth, which can be attached to the implants.

Dental implants can support a single artificial tooth or multiple teeth in the form of a bridge or denture. They are also a good option for people who have difficulty wearing traditional dental appliances, such as trying to wear dentures. If you have a missing tooth and are considering dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.

To Keep Your Gums Healthy

Dental implants are anchored directly into your jawbone, unlike other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges. This ensures a more secure fit and avoids gum irritation with removable appliances. In addition, dental implants help preserve healthy gum tissue by providing support for the gum line.

This support helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay, which can lead to gum recession and bone loss. As a result, dental implants can help you maintain good oral health for years to come.

Improving The Density Of Your Jaw Bone

Not only do they look natural, but implants also improve the density of your jaw bone. That’s because dental implants are placed directly into the bone, providing enough support for the artificial tooth. In addition, the implant stimulates the surrounding bone, helping to preserve its structure. This is especially important for people who have lost teeth due to injury or disease.

Without dental implants, the jawbone can shrink and change shape, eventually leading to more serious problems. As a result, dental implants can improve your appearance and help preserve your long-term health.

Dental Implant Procedure: What To Expect

If you have never heard of dental implants before, you are not alone. Many people are unaware of this tooth-replacement option, which has only been available for the past few decades. However, dental implants have quickly become the best choice for people missing just one tooth or those with multiple missing teeth. However, it’s important to know what to expect before getting this surgery.

Getting A Consultation

Before you decide to go ahead with implant dentistry, it’s important to have a consultation with a qualified implant dentist. During the consultation, the dentist will evaluate your mouth to ensure you are a candidate for dental implants. They will also discuss the implant procedure with you in detail and answer any questions you may have. This is also an excellent time to understand what your dental insurance will cover.

In some cases, tooth extraction may even be necessary before implant surgery. The consultation is an essential step in the implant process, so choose a qualified implant dentist that you feel comfortable with.

Choosing Your New Artificial Teeth

When choosing your new artificial teeth, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll need to decide what type of surgical procedures you’re comfortable with. Dental implants can be done in one surgery or multiple surgeries, depending on the placement of the implant and the condition of your surrounding teeth.

Second, you’ll need to choose a material for your new teeth. Porcelain is a popular choice because it looks natural and is strong and durable. However, it can be more expensive than other materials. Third, you’ll need to decide on the size, shape, and color of your new teeth.

This personal decision will depend on your preferences, aesthetic goals, and surrounding teeth. Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to decide which artificial teeth are right for you.

A Bone Graft May Be Required

It’s important to be aware that you may require bone grafting to ensure successful implantation. The reason for this is dental implants are placed in the jawbone and must have enough bone surrounding them to anchor securely. If there is not enough bone present, a dental specialist may recommend a bone graft.

This involves taking bone from another area of the body or using artificial bone substitutes and placing it in the jawbone to build up the necessary structure. In some cases, you may also require a sinus lift to increase the jawbone height. However, with today’s dental technology, successful dental implants are more achievable than ever before.

Placing The Abutment

When you receive a dental implant, the first thing your oral surgeon will do is place the abutment. The abutment is a small titanium implant fixture that serves as the foundation for your new tooth. Your oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue and drill a pilot hole into your jawbone to place the abutment.

Next, they will insert the metal implant post into the hole and secure it with screws. Once the abutment is in place, your oral surgeon will close up the incision with stitches. You will be under local anesthesia during the abutment placement, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, you may experience some mild discomfort and swelling afterward.

Your dental surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your implant site as it heals. In most cases, the abutment will be left in place until your implant has fully bonded to your jawbone. At that point, your dental surgeon will attach your new tooth to the abutment.

Waiting For Bone Growth

When considering dental implants, patients must know that the surgical procedure is just the first step in a multi-stage process. Once the implant is in place, it will take some time for the bone to grow around it and fuse it securely in place. This process, called osseointegration, can take a few weeks to several months. In the meantime, a protective cap will cover the implant to keep it from being exposed. 

Once osseointegration is complete, the patient will return to have their permanent restoration placed on the dental implant. This restoration can be a crown, dental bridge, or a removable denture, depending on the patient’s needs.

Placing the Crown

One of the most critical steps in getting a dental implant is placing the crown. The crown is the part of the implant that will be visible above the gum line, and it plays a crucial role in both the function and appearance of the dental implant. When choosing a crown, you need to consider several factors, including the type of tooth you’re replacing ( a single tooth or several teeth) and the desired aesthetic result.

In many cases, the oral surgeon will use a prosthetic tooth that closely resembles a natural tooth. When attaching the crown to the abutment, your oral surgeon will use a special dental cement. Once the crown is in place, you should be able to eat and drink normally and brush and floss just as you would with your natural teeth.

Recovery After Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace missing teeth. The success rate for dental implants is relatively high, and dentists can place multiple dental implants in a single surgery. However, after getting a dental implant, the recovery process can take several weeks. It is important to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant site during this time.

The implant will eventually fuse with the bone and become strong enough to support a dental prosthesis with proper care. This means avoiding crunchy foods or chewy foods. It is also essential to brush and floss carefully around the implant site.

Risks Of Getting A Dental Implant

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with dental implants. While most of these risks are minor, it is important to be aware of them before getting started. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether or not dental implants are right for you.

Sinus Issues

One of the most common complications of dental implant surgery is sinus issues. The dentist inserts the implant screw into the jawbone, which is very close to the sinuses. The implant can penetrate the sinus cavity in some cases, resulting in pain, infection, and other serious problems. Most dental implants go smoothly without incident, but it’s important to be aware of this potential risk.

Implant Failure

Another risk you should be aware of is implant failure. This can occur when the implant fails to fuse with the bone. The implant may need to be removed and replaced by dental specialists in some cases. Other risks associated with failed implants include nerve damage around the tooth root and injury to other teeth. However, these complications are relatively rare, and dental implants are generally considered safe. With proper care and regular dental checkups, dental implants can last for many years.

Infection

While dental implants offer many benefits, they also carry a small risk of infection. The dental implant surgery requires that a hole be drilled into the jawbone to place the artificial tooth root, allowing bacteria to enter the wound. In addition, a dental implant is often placed in areas that are difficult to clean, making it difficult to remove all plaque and bacteria. For these reasons, it is essential to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of dental implant surgery before deciding.

Are You Considering A Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They offer many benefits, including a high success rate, the ability to eat and drink normally, and brush and floss just like natural teeth. However, there are some risks associated with dental implants. Before getting started, it is essential to be aware of the risks and recovery process. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years and keep your teeth looking great!