Dental implants
It is said that laughter is the best medicine, but sometimes a smile is enough. Studies show that putting a smile on your face can ease anxiety, strengthen relationships and even reduce the risk of heart disease.
Once you’ve passed the age where you believe in the tooth fairy, losing a tooth is no longer fun for most people and doesn’t bring any benefits. With this in mind, some of us simply accept tooth loss as an inevitable process of aging, but some people look for tooth replacement options. If you are missing one or more teeth in the back of your mouth, you may think that it is not a big problem since they are not visible when you smile, but ignoring missing teeth can cause other dental problems.
Dental implants are a good option for tooth replacement. If you’ve decided that dental implants are right for you but are worried about the procedure, here are some tips that can help you mentally prepare.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are undoubtedly the best replacement for your natural teeth. Just like a tooth, a dental implant is made up of two parts: a root that lies below the gum line and a visible tooth that can be seen above it. While a natural tooth is made of enamel, a dental implant consists of a titanium base buried beneath the gums and a porcelain crown above the gums that matches the color of your natural teeth.
What does a dental implant contain?
Implant components include:
- Root shape– A helical fastener, usually made of titanium
- Abutment– A connector that attaches to the top of the implant
- Restoration– A dental crown attached to the connector that replaces the portion of the tooth above the gum line
Dental implants replace missing teeth and provide dentures.
How much does a dental implant cost?
The costs for implant treatment vary greatly. Typically, the cost of dental implants increases depending on the effort involved, with individual gaps being the easiest and entire jaws being the most complex. As a rough guide: The costs per dental implant can range between CHF 2,500 and CHF 5,500. This depends on the number of implants, the surface area of the teeth and the planned treatment. For precise cost and treatment planning, you need X-rays and clarification of health aspects. Initial consultations are usually offered free of charge.
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants have a long, well-documented history of success. Most implant roots are made of titanium. Your jawbone fuses with the biocompatible “root” in a process called osseointegration. Although titanium allergies are rare, metal-free zirconia implants are available if you have a metal allergy or sensitivity or prefer an alternative to titanium.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
The July 2014 issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association published research showing that dental implants have a 95% success rate. The researchers relied on a study in which the results of dental implants inserted by specialists were evaluated over a period of three to five years.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
The advantages of dental implants are many:
Imitation of natural teeth – Implants have the same structure as natural teeth. People won’t notice your dental implants – just your smile.
Improve quality of life – No other form of dentures feels or works better. You can eat and speak with ease and smile with confidence.
Preventing Jawbone Loss– Implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent the bone loss that occurs with missing teeth.
Prevent premature facial sagging– Preserving your jawbone supports your facial muscles and prevents them from sagging and making you look older prematurely.
What are the disadvantages of dental implants?
They are not a quick fix to replace missing teeth. The surgery, bone grafting if necessary, and the healing process take time. And implants cost more than other forms of dentures, but they also last much longer.
How do dental implants compare to other types of tooth replacement?
Dental implants, a dental bridge, a partial denture and a full denture all replace missing teeth. But how do they compare?
Dental Implants – An oral surgeon anchors an artificial tooth root into your jawbone. Unlike a partial denture or a dental bridge, your neighboring teeth are not affected.
Dental Bridge– A series of dental crowns fused on the sides replace one tooth or two or more missing teeth in a row. The replacement teeth are located in the middle of the bridge, and the crown at each end covers a natural tooth to anchor the bridge. However, your dentist must grind down the healthy structure of the anchor teeth. Otherwise the crowns will not fit on the teeth.
Partial denture – A replacement tooth is embedded in a gum-colored base. The metal or plastic clasps at the ends of the partial denture hook onto the teeth next to the missing tooth.
Full denture– A full denture replaces an arch of the upper or lower teeth. The upper jaw denture is attached using suction cups, while the lower jaw denture rests on the gums.
Although a fixed bridge or partial denture is less expensive than a dental implant, studies show that the teeth adjacent to the denture can fall out by up to 30% within five to seven years.
What if my body rejects the implants?
It is rare for a patient’s body to reject dental implants because titanium is biocompatible and the jawbone easily fuses with it. However, if you are allergic or sensitive to titanium, you can also get metal-free zirconia implants. If you practice careful oral hygiene and keep your follow-up appointments, you will create a healthy environment for the success of your implants.[1]
Am I a suitable candidate for dental implants?
Most people, except children whose jawbone is still growing and developing, are candidates for dental implants. However, your oral surgeon will perform an examination to determine if you are a candidate. Thanks to advanced dental implant technology, careful aftercare, and regular follow-up appointments, most patients can receive implants even if they have existing health problems.
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[1] Central Florida, oral and facial surgery. Source: https://www.centralfloridaoralsurgery.com/every-single-question-youll-want-to-ask-before-getting-dental-implants/
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