In the past few decades, dental implants have become increasingly popular. Dental implants are an excellent solution for people who suffer from dental problems like tooth decay or cracks, or for patients who have lost teeth due to injury, disease, or aging. They are also recommended to people who want to improve the appearance of their smile, but are not in need of a fixed or removable prosthetic.
However, dental implants are not for everyone, and before considering them, it is crucial to have a discussion about them with a dentist experienced in dental implants.
Implants have several advantages. They look and feel almost identical to your original teeth. You clean and floss them the same way you brush and floss your other teeth, and they don’t require any particular attention. Dental implants are seldom replaced and have the potential to last the rest of your life.
However, implants are not for everyone, and they may not be the best option for you. Before you make your final decision, here are a few things the dentists at Lincoln Crossings Dental Care would like you to know about dental implants.
● There Are Several Types Of Dental Implants
There are many types of dental implants that are used to replace missing teeth. The most common type of implant is the endosteal implant, which is used to replace a single tooth. An endosteal implant is inserted into the patient’s jaw, and as the healing process continues, it fuses with the jawbone and becomes a fixed anchor for a replacement tooth.
Mini implants are another popular treatment option being used right now, however their use is only for very limited situations. Mainly when standard implants are not an option due to the patients bone, health, or financial concerns. Times when mini implants can be a great option are for an elderly person who has a lower denture they would like to stabilize.
● Dental Implants Are Both Expensive And Cost-Effective At The Same Time
The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, but you can expect to spend a significant amount upfront. However, because they are so durable, you will seldom need to repair or replace them to spend less money on their upkeep over time.
● There’s a Surgical Procedure Involved
The surgery needed to insert a dental implant is a simple one. An incision in your gums is created to provide access to your jawbone. The socket of the lost tooth is adequately prepared to fit the implant screw. Following the implantation of the connecting component, the gums are sutured to seal the incision. Before you can have your dental prosthesis, the bone must develop around the implant screw. This is known as osseointegration, and it can take up to four months to complete. Initially, your jawbone density may not be sufficient to sustain a dental implant. You may need a bone graft to strengthen and enhance the density of your bone before you can receive your implant.
In conclusion, many people with missing teeth benefit from dental implants as a therapy option. However, it would be best if you learned as much as possible about the procedure ahead of time to determine whether you can make the required commitment.
Moreover, beware of the dental implants misconceptions that most people tend to have. Before getting dental implants, visit your family dentistry office and ask your dentist to walk you through the procedure, explain what the side effects are, and inform you on what to expect.
