If you are missing some teeth (or have some that are badly damaged), you might be looking at dental implants. Though many people assume that a dental implant is a tooth (or an artificial one), it is not true. It is actually an artificial root! It is a titanium post that gets implanted into your jawbone to act as a root for your artificial tooth (or dentures).
If you are considering having dental implants placed, here are some answers to some questions that you may have. It will help you decide whether or not dental implants are right for you.
Do patients react well to implants?
Most patients do well with implants. Some people can even get their replacement teeth in within a few weeks, giving them a much brighter smile.
Are dental implants permanent?
Implants are permanent structures. In fact, they are strong because the new bone will grow around your implants to hold them in place. This process, called osseointegration, can take a few weeks or months to occur.
What is the recovery time for implants?
The recovery for implants is usually pretty simple. You may notice some swelling and tenderness around the area so your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe some pain medication. You may also need to eat softer foods for a few days until the pain and tenderness subside.
Are most dental implants successful?
The success rate for dental implants is around ninety to ninety-five percent. To make sure that yours are going to work, you need to maintain good oral hygiene. Routine brushing and flossing are essential to keep the rest of your mouth healthy. You also need to continue to visit the dentist so that you don’t end up with peri-implantitis, which damages the soft tissue and bone around your implant.
What are the simpler treatments be?
If you don’t think implants are for you, there are some other options.
Tooth-supported fixed bridge.
This is the most common fix when you are only missing one tooth. However, to do this, you need to grind away the adjacent teeth so that your replacement teeth have something to attach to and support it.
These aren’t ideal because it can be hard to maintain good hygiene when your teeth are all bridged together. Most people need to get them replaced after five to ten years.
Removable partial dentures.
Many people choose removable partial dentures because they are not as expensive as implants and some of the other options. However, they also don’t look as natural as some of the other options. They are also not as comfortable. Some people struggle to eat with their removable partial dentures.
Resin-bonded bridge.
This option, also known as a Maryland Bridge, is commonly used on front teeth because they are don’t need to be as strong since they aren’t used for biting and chewing. You don’t have to grind down your other teeth to place a resin-bonded bridge, though it is definitely not as strong.
Removable complete denture.
Dentures are often used due to their cost. However, many people complain about them. They are often uncomfortable. They may cause sore gums. It can affect your eating also.
Because they are not implanted into your jaw, the appearance of your smile and face may change as your mouth deteriorates.
Because of this, your best bet is to get dental implants. Though they may cost a little more, you won’t have to replace them in a few years like you would if you go bridges or dentures. They are also more comfortable and natural-looking. You won’t struggle to eat or talk when they are in, and they will help with deterioration which can drastically change how you look.
Venice Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is a team of dental professionals who have decades of experience working together with patients in need of specialty dental services. If you suffer from periodontal disease, contact us to schedule an exam and consultation with our board certified periodontist today!
