Damaging or losing one or more teeth can instantly make you feel embarrassed and less confident about your smile. The introduction of dental implants provided a long-term teeth-replacement solution. Many experts refer to implants as the gold standard for restoring oral function following tooth loss compared to dentures and bridges. If you're considering dental implants, you're signing up for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your original teeth.
What Is a Dental Implant?
Tooth loss is common in adults due to aging, poor dental hygiene, and facial trauma. A dental implant is a fancy name for a prosthetic tooth root. It looks like a small titanium post/screw and is inserted in the space left by a missing tooth. The post will function as an anchor for one or more prosthetic teeth. Advances in dentistry now make it possible to get implant-supported dentures and bridges, All-On-4, a full-mouth restoration, and even same-day implants.
What Is the Dental Implant Process?
The artificial tooth root is surgically implanted into the jawbone for patients getting endosteal implants. Subperiosteal implants are inserted into the gum in patients who do not have sufficient jawbone height to hold the post. Bone grafting may help in some instances. It takes several months for the bone to fuse to the metal post when getting endosteal implants. Fusion is needed to keep the artificial tooth root snugly in place. At the end of this process, the replacement tooth is mounted and held in place by a metal connector known as an abutment.
Why Do People Prefer Implants?
Getting implants can significantly improve your quality of life and health. You'll have a full set of teeth that preserve your smile, allow you to chew and speak properly, and stay in place. Missing teeth are not only noticeable but also result in adjacent teeth shifting in an attempt to close the gap. This can lead to weak or crooked adjacent teeth, facial asymmetry, or an uneven bite. You'll avoid these risks with implants, which also protect against jawbone bone loss.
Are Implants Right for Me?
Almost anyone with one or more damaged or missing teeth can be a good candidate for implants. A consultation with your dentist will allow you to get more information on whether you're a good fit for this procedure. Generally, patients can qualify for this tooth restoration option if they have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support endosteal implants. Patients with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes and cancer, are not usually eligible for treatment.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Implants are considered to be a permanent replacement option that can last a lifetime with proper care. Although the titanium tooth root won't decay, you'll still need to continue daily oral care to maintain clean, healthy teeth and gums. Peri-implantitis, a type of gum disease that affects implants, can occur from poor oral hygiene. The disease can affect the stability of the implant or cause it to fail or fall out.
Call to Request a Consultation
Dental implants are the most natural-looking alternative for saving your smile. We will perform an oral exam and discuss your options before customizing a treatment plan based on your needs. Our office is equipped with the latest technology that shows the appearance of your smile after treatment. Call 516-676-0250 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to giving you a smile that will last for a lifetime.