If you have damaged or missing teeth, then one question that might have crossed your mind is “Do I need Dental Implants?” It’s a valid question because, in recent years, dental implants have grown in popularity.
Today, Dental implants are considered an optimal solution for the replacement of a single tooth or multiple teeth.
Not only do dental implants look and feel natural. They are also a better alternative to other tooth replacement options such as a bridge, partial dentures or full dentures. And the good news is that almost everyone can be a candidate for dental implants.
What are dental implants?
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Dental implants are made of high-quality titanium and look like a screw. They are inserted into your jawbone in the gap where the tooth is missing. Titanium is the only metal that’s known to safely fuse with human bone.
It usually takes a couple of months for the bone to grow around the implant. The process is called osseointegration. The implant is then stable enough to have a crown (the tooth) attached to it. The result is a strong, comfortable and natural looking tooth.
Do I need dental implants?
If you have a missing or loose tooth, are missing several teeth or want to replace uncomfortable partial dentures, dental implants may be the long-term solution you’re looking for! Almost everyone is considered a good candidate for dental implants. Major health issues such as uncontrolled diabetes may prevent you from getting a dental implant. Heavy smoking can also result in lower success rates as it impedes the healing process after the implant is placed. Generally, most people in good health will likely qualify for dental implants. Still unsure? Call our practice today to book a free dental implant consultation.
Why choose a dental implant?
Dental implants are considered to be the treatment option that looks and feels the most like a natural tooth. They are comfortable and are permanent as opposed to a bridge, partial denture or full dentures, as they’re only temporary and must be replaced over time.
What will my dental implant feel like?
Once the implant has integrated with your jaw bone, it feels and acts like a natural tooth. If you had a partial denture, it would cover part of your mouth and even put pressure on your gum, which can be uncomfortable. You don’t get that feeling with a dental implant. It just feels more like your natural tooth.
Do I need to stop smoking?
Smoking tends to restrict the blood flow to the gums and surrounding tissues as well as inhibit bone growth. Therefore, smoking prevents your jawbone from integrating with the titanium implant. That means you won’t have a stable root that we can attach the crown to and your dental implant has a higher chance of failure.
Can I put off getting a dental implant?
If you have a missing tooth, delaying a dental implant could cause bone loss in your jaw at the site of the lost tooth. And, if you leave a tooth gap exposed, your teeth have a tendency to start shifting to fill that gap, which could in turn cause issues with your surrounding teeth. That means later down the track your teeth will affect your oral health and you may need more dental work than the initial tooth replacement.
