What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gum line. Once in place, a dental implant acts as a new “root” for a replacement tooth. A small metal connector, called an abutment, is then placed on top of the dental implant and a replacement tooth (called a crown) is attached to the abutment. Dental implants are an effective and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
The placement of dental implants requires a minor surgical procedure. The first step is to place the implant into the bone socket of the missing tooth. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is placed on top of the implant. This will hold the new tooth or bridge in place.
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be considering dental implants. This treatment can provide many benefits, including improved appearance and speech, increased comfort and eating ability, and improved oral health. In addition, dental implants can help to preserve the bone in your jaw and prevent deterioration of the surrounding teeth.
Who Is The Right Candidate For Dental Implants?
Here’s how to know whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants!
– Healthy gums: If you have healthy gums, your dentist may recommend dental implants. However, if you don’t have healthy gums, your dentist may not recommend dental implants.
– Sufficient bone density: People with sufficient bone density in their jaw are the best candidates for dental implants. This is because the implants need to be anchored into the jawbone, and if the patient doesn’t have enough bone density, the implants won’t be able to properly fuse with the bone. Patients who don’t have sufficient bone density may still be able to get dental implants, but they may require a bone graft first to build up the density of their jawbone.
– Good oral health: People with good oral health are the best candidates for dental implants. This is because they have strong bones and healthy gums, which are necessary for successful implant surgery. Furthermore, good oral health means that there is less chance of infection after surgery. Therefore, if you are considering dental implants, it is important to make sure that your oral health is in good condition.
– No Tobacco: People who don’t consume tobacco products are the perfect candidates for dental implants. If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, your dentist may not recommend you dental implant. This is because smoking can cause problems with healing after surgery.
Why Are Dental Implants Becoming So Popular?
#1 Natural Look
One of the most popular reasons for dental implants is that they look natural. Unlike other options, such as dentures, which can often look fake or uncomfortable, dental implants give the appearance of real teeth. This makes them a great option for people who are looking to improve their smile. In addition, dental implants are also very durable and can last a long time with proper care.
The implant itself is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone and fuses with the bone over time. This provides a strong and stable base for a replacement tooth, called a crown. The crown is made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, so it blends in seamlessly.
#2 Painless
Dental implants are a painless procedure for most patients. The implant is placed under the gum line and does not require any cutting or stitching. The implant is made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone. This process is called osseointegration and provides a strong foundation for the artificial tooth.
The dentist will first numb the area around the implant site with a local anesthetic. Once the area is numb, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums and place the dental implant into the bone.
Next, the dentist will close the incision with sutures and place a healing abutment on top of the implant. The healing abutment will protect the implant as it heals. Finally, the dentist will place a dental crown on top of the implant once it has healed.
Most people report feeling very little pain during the procedure and only minor discomfort afterward. Recovery times vary from person to person but are typically quite short. Many people can return to their normal activities within a few days.
#3 Durable
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option because they are durable and long-lasting. Unlike other options, dental implants are fused to the jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth.
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is a strong and durable metal. The titanium is placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time. This fusion makes the dental implant very strong and durable.
In addition, dental implants can be used to support a dental bridge or denture, making them a versatile solution for those missing one or more teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a wise investment for your oral health.
#4 Covered In Insurance
Although dental implants could be an expensive procedure, most insurance companies cover them. Most dental insurance companies offer dental implants as part of their coverage, making implants more popular. This means that patients who are considering dental implants should check with their insurance company to see if the procedure is covered. If it is not covered, patients may still be able to get dental implants by paying for them out-of-pocket.
While some people may be hesitant to get dental implants due to the cost, the reality is that they can be quite affordable, especially when compared to other dental procedures.
#5 Preserves Your Face’s Shape
Dental implants are a great way to preserve the natural shape of your face.
When teeth are lost, the bone that supported them starts to resorb, or shrink. This can change the shape of the face and make a person look older. Dental implants help to prevent this bone loss and preserve the natural shape of the face.
By filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, they can help give you a fuller, more symmetrical appearance. Additionally, dental implants can help support your facial muscles and skin, preventing sagging and giving you a more youthful look.
