Dental implants are part of a long-term replacement solution for missing teeth. They are posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth and support dental restorations such as crowns or fixed dentures. You may want to consider dental implants to replace teeth lost due to disease or trauma if:
- You cover your mouth because you are self-conscious about missing teeth
- Your traditional dentures are uncomfortable or slip and shift a lot
- You are unhappy with your partial denture
- You do not want your remaining teeth damaged to anchor a dental bridge
- You have difficulty eating or speaking due to missing teeth
Implants can replace an individual tooth, more than one tooth, or support a full arch of prosthetic teeth resembling dentures but attached permanently to the implants.
Dental implants are made of biocompatible materials that gradually fuse with the surrounding bone. The most common materials are titanium, a lightweight metal used for artificial joint replacements, and zirconia, a durable ceramic used in patients allergic to metal.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants are the only permanent, fixed solution for missing teeth. They offer multiple benefits to anyone with missing teeth, including:
- Implants look and feel natural because they fit securely and do not move around in the mouth.
- Unlike dentures and removable bridges, implants do not shift, click, or pinch, preventing embarrassment and pain.
- A single-tooth implant can be placed without damaging adjacent teeth.
- Implants help preserve the jawbone. Without an implant’s stimulation, the jawbone can deteriorate significantly in the first year after tooth loss.
- No dietary restrictions.
- Easy to care for; you brush and floss dental implants like natural teeth.
- Implants do not need to be replaced or repaired. They are the only tooth replacement option that can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you are in good health and your teeth and gums are healthy, you may be a candidate for dental implants. If you have any cavities or gum disease, such as gingivitis, these must be treated before your dentist can proceed with dental implants.
Some people who are in good health may not have sufficient jawbone mass to support dental implants in the upper or lower jaw. They may be able to get implants, but not until they undergo bone grafting to build up the bony ridge of the jawbone so that it is wide enough and strong enough to support the implants. This may add several months to the dental implant timeline.
Finally, some medical conditions rule out individuals as candidates for implants. Individuals with blood clotting disorders, certain autoimmune diseases, and uncontrolled diabetes are not good candidates because they risk uncontrolled bleeding or implant failure. Heavy smokers also run the risk of implant failure and complications because smoking interferes with the healing process.