Dental implants are the epitome of restorative dentistry, offering a long-term solution for missing teeth. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry estimates that over 3 million people in the country have implants!
But what exactly are dental implants for teeth, and how safe are they?
If you’re considering dental implants to help solve your dental issue, this article will share all the details you need to know including their benefits and risks.
Key Takeaways:
- Dental implants have a 98% success rate and are a safe and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering natural-looking results and enhanced functionality.
- Some of the complications that may occur include infection of the site and nerve damage.
- Getting a qualified and experienced dentist or oral surgeon professional increases the chances of a successful dental implant procedure.
Table of Contents
What Are Dental Implants?
Let’s begin with the definition. What is a tooth implant?
A tooth implant is a surgical component implanted in the jaw to support a prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, or denture.
Essentially, dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Mostly made from titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses well with bone, implants are designed to mimic the function and appearance of natural teeth.
The Implant Fitting Procedure
Installing dental implants typically involves several steps and may span several months, depending on the patient’s dental health and the specifics of the dental implant needed.
Here’s a brief overview:
- Initial Consultation — Thorough dental exams and X-rays are conducted and quality molds of the mouth are made.
- Preparation — If the site lacks sufficient bone grafting may be required.
- Implant Placement — Under local anesthesia, the surgeon places the implant into the jawbone, which requires a healing period that can last several months.
- Abutment Placement — Once healed, an abutment is installed onto the implant to hold the new tooth.
- Artificial Tooth Placement — Finally, the custom-made crown (artificial tooth) is attached to the abutment.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice:
1. Durability
Implants can last many years, even a lifetime with proper care.
2. Natural Teeth Preservation
Unlike bridges, implants do not require the removal of other teeth preserving more of your natural teeth.
3. Increased Comfort
As you gradually get used to them, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures thereby improving quality of life.
4. Restores the Ability to Chew
Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence.
5. Improved Appearance and Speech
Implants look and feel like natural teeth and can help improve your smile and speech marred by poor-fitting dentures.
Risks and Complications
While dental implants have a 98% success rate and are considered generally safe, they carry some risks, as do all surgical procedures.
Potential complications include:
- Infection on the implant site.
- Damage to surrounding structures, such as other teeth or blood vessels.
- Nerve damage, which can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in your natural teeth, gums, lips, or chin.
- Sinus problems especially, when implants are placed in the upper jaw.
- Movement of the implant or exposure of the implant above the gumline.
However, the risk of complications is rare, and when performed by an experienced dentist or oral surgeon, the procedure is typically very successful.
Dental Implant Maintenance
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth, including brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.
Proper oral hygiene helps ensure the long-term success of dental implants and prevents infections or gum disease around the implant site.
Restore Your Smile With Quality Implant Dentures At Dixon Dental Center
Do you think dental implants can improve the quality of your life? Visit Dixon Dental Center and let’s help you get the best dental implant treatment available. With our up-to-date dental implant expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, we are confident of 100% customer satisfaction. Schedule an appointment with us to get started.