Dental implants are worth the time and expense if you need to replace a missing tooth. Implants provide a strong foundation for permanent or removable teeth and can be made to look like your natural teeth.
Tooth loss can occur due to decay, cavities, periodontal disease, or injury. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants replace both the tooth and the root. This can help prevent a gap from causing your other teeth to shift.
What are the pros of dental implants?
- Appearance: Implants serve a cosmetic purpose by looking like your natural teeth.
- Speech: Dentures can slip from the teeth sockets and cause you to slur or mumble. Since dental implants are fused to your bone, you don’t have to worry about this problem.
- Eating: When dentures are poorly fitted, chewing can be difficult. Since implants work like your own teeth, you can eat normally.
- Self-esteem: If you are missing a tooth, it can prevent you from smiling in public. Implants can give you confidence in your smile.
- Durability: When cared for properly, dental implants can last for years and don’t require much maintenance other than practicing good oral hygiene.
- Convenience: Since permanent dental implants don’t need to be removed or kept in place with adhesives, they are more convenient than dentures.
- Safety: In most cases, the procedure is safe and relatively painless. Some people may experience mild discomfort and irritation in the gums after the surgery, which appropriate medications can help with.
Who can get dental implants?
Most healthy people are eligible for dental implant surgery. Requirements include:
- Healthy gums with enough bone to hold the implant
- Good oral hygiene
- No comorbidities such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
- No heavy smoking
In the past, people with diabetes were recommended not to get dental implants. However, current guidelines state that those whose blood sugar levels are under control can undergo the procedure.
Before making a decision regarding implants, you should consult your dentist.
How are dental implants done?
Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure that involves a team of skilled dental surgeons. Treatment plans are tailored to the needs of each patient.
- A titanium root implant is prepared and placed in the tooth socket. The gums surrounding the new root heal after 12 weeks and secure it in place.
- After this, a connecting post called an abutment is attached to the root. This anchors the new tooth to the root.
- An artificial tooth that resembles the original tooth is fixed to the root.
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Medically Reviewed on 12/21/2021
References
Image Source: iStock Images
WebMD. Dental Implants. https://webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants
WebMD. Dental Implants. https://webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants
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