A tooth loss can not only impact your daily life (eating, speaking, smiling etc.) but also alter the operation of the other adjacent teeth and over the years, the jaw may also change. For most people, dental implants are a reliable and realistic method of replacing missing teeth. But deciding if they are right for you depends on your oral health, your desired treatment options and your individual situation.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant mimics the root portion of a missing tooth. A small post is inserted into the jawbone and given time to heal and fuse (osseointegrate). When the implant is mature, it can be used to anchor a crown, bridge, or other restoration.
Implants are permanently placed in the jaw, so while eating or talking, they can be stabilized unlike some removable solutions. The new tooth is also made to match the rest of your smile.
How Can Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth?
The implantation procedure can generally be divided into four stages: An initial consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon, to have the mouth and life and the bone of the jaw inspected. Sometimes a dental x-ray may be taken to find out if the bone is proper for the implant.
The next stage is to insert the implant post into the jaws. The implant has to heal and become joined to the surrounding bone before proceeding onto the next stage. An abutment is attached to the implant, then a bespoke dental crown or other type of restoration fitted.
The total duration from the start of treatment to the completion of the treatment depends on the individual patient and will be affected by the amount of missing teeth, healing of the tissue and the need for further treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Using dental implants may be beneficial for the individual in several ways:
Improved Function
Has a well supported artificial tooth, this can be made easier for the person to chew and speak than some removable replacements for the teeth.
Natural Appearance
Implant-supported restorations are made to mimic natural teeth in both form and function, resulting in a more complete smile.
Stable Tooth Replacement
As the implant is fixed in the jawbone, this creates a solid base to be used for the replacement tooth.
Support for Oral Structure
Replacing missing teeth can help in preserve the function of the other teeth and jaw. Your dental team can advise you on how tooth loss might affect your specific oral health.
Who May Be a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can offer an excellent solution for single or multiple missing teeth in a healthy adult. Good oral health and jaw bone support should be established prior to any implant planning. Healthy gums and adequate bone are essential for implant planning.
Some oral health issues may have to be addressed prior to the insertion of an implant. When there is inadequate bone present for an implant, additional treatment can sometimes be considered.
A consultation is therefore essential to determine the appropriateness of implants.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing Implants?
Will I need time to prepare for my implants? and Will I need time to recover after treatment? Dental implants take some planning, time to heal and time for vigilant follow-up maintenance with your dental professional. Before treatment, questions to ask your dental professional include:
Additionally, it is necessary to continue having good oral hygiene even after the implants are placed. Brushing and flossing daily, as well as having regular dental check-ups, will greatly affect the health of the implant and adjacent teeth and gums.
By selecting a competent Dentist In Simi Valley, you can learn what kind of tooth replacement options are available to you, and if implants are right for you.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
There is not just one tooth replacement option that is suitable for everyone.Your dentist will assess your oral health, length of remaining roots, bone structure, lifestyle, number of missing teeth and what you want to achieve from treatment before advising which would be best for you.
If you are interested in Dental Implants In Simi Valley, a dental consultation will help you to understand all of the possibilities, what process is involved, and determine if all of your missing teeth are compatible with this form of cosmetic dentistry.
FAQs
1. How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are considered as a fixed prosthesis, which provides a replacement for the tooth over a period of time. The duration of a dental implant varies according to the health of the oral environment, individual habits, general health and regular visits to the dentist.
2. Can dental implants replace one missing tooth?
Yes. One implant can accommodate an individual crown for the generality of indications when suitable for the health and treatment of the patient.
3. Can implants replace several missing teeth?
Yes. Sometimes many implants will be used to support one restoration, bridge or other implant borne alternative.
4. What happens if I do not have enough jawbone?
Inadequate bone does not necessarily mean that a patient cannot receive implant treatment. Your dentist can assess your bone and go through other options if necessary.
5. How do I care for dental implants?
Dental implants require good oral hygiene practices. These include daily brushing and flossing, professional cleanings, and routine checkups. It is vital to adhere to any instructions given by your dentist.
