A striking number of people suffer tooth loss in their lifetime, from injury, tooth deterioration or gum disease. For several years, the only treatment options to replace missing teeth were dentures and bridges. Implants are a modern alternative option to these traditional choices. Inserted into the jaw, implants are surgically placed replacement tooth roots, which provide a sturdy base for a natural looking synthetic teeth. Not only selected for aesthetics, implants also closely mimic the natural function of teeth. For these reasons and more, implants are the restoration of choice for many people today.
Orthopedic surgeon Per-Ingvar Brnemark invented modern implants in 1952. Today, they can be used to replace a single tooth, one or two teeth, or an entire set of teeth. Most dental implants are made of titanium. They are inserted into the jawbone and then left to fuse with the bone for six weeks or more. This anchors the implant securely to the jaw. Following the healing period, a synthetic tooth or bridge can then be attached to the implant. The anchoring of the implant to the jaw in this manner offers exceptional individual stability.
The implants procedure starts with a thorough consultation, exam and x-rays. The quantity and quality of jawbone must be assessed for suitability. The implantation of the metal post is the next step of the procedure. Depending on the condition of remaining teeth, the first stage of the surgery can often involve tooth or teeth extraction. A bone graft may be needed to offer a solid base of bone for the implant. Following either ( or both ) of these procedures, healing time is required.
Once the jawbone is ready, the implants are placed with special equipment. Another healing period is then necessary, though a temporary denture can usually be made in this waiting time. Follow-up appointments are essential to examine the surgical site for healing status and also for possibility of infection. When fusion of the jaw and implant has occurred alongside sufficient healing time, a component called an ‘abutment’ is attached to the implant using a screw. This holds the replacement tooth. Casts are then taken of the mouth to form the synthetic teeth.
The success rate for dental implants is close to 98%. There are several other benefits to dental implants like improved appearance, speech, comfort and self-confidence. Unlike any other options, dental implants both look and feel like natural teeth allowing patients to talk and eat without issues. What’s more, they are also a permanent solution. Implants are durable and with good care, will last a lifetime. The fusion between jaw and implants allows for a snug fit.
Some patients considering implants are anxious about how painful the procedure is. Be assured, the implantation is regularly performed under local anaesthic and no pain should be felt during the procedure. Post-surgery painful will change between patients, but mild tenderness can be expected. This can usually be managed simply with over the counter pain medications.
The other concerns for people considering implants are usually the cost and / or suitability. Patients need to have good oral health and adequate bone to hold the implant. Every potential patient is individually evaluated for eligibility. As respects cost, other teeth replacement options initially seem to be less expensive than implants. As mentioned before still implants are a long-term solution with predictable results and a high success rate. Most dental costs insurance policies do not cover the full implant procedure, but your dentist might be able to provide a repayment schedule to suit you.
Dental implants offer a reliable, comfortable and practical looking alternative for missing or damaged teeth. With correct care and upkeep, implants can present a solution to last a lifetime. The process won’t be quick, but millions of men and women have found the results to be worth waiting for. If you have missing or damaged teeth, consider dental implants for a better look and feel today.