The dental implant process is perhaps one of the most complex and protracted dental procedures. It is also, however, one of the most effective solutions to lost teeth. Getting dental implants can be a time-consuming process. Implants are basically artificial replacement teeth that are surgically implanted at a significant depth in the jawbone. After the implants have been placed in the jaw, they can be covered with a crown, bridge, or dentures. An implant replaces the missing tooth root, and the implant serves as a foundation for the artificial tooth. If you need assistance deciding which dental implant type is best for replacing a missing tooth, please contact our dentists at Emily Ianno Zaramella, DDS. We conduct an assessment to see whether replacing your teeth with implants is the ideal solution.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a metal frame or post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone under the gums. After it has been inserted, a dentist mounts a replacement tooth on it. The implants fuse and bond to the jawbone, providing stable support for the artificial teeth. The bridges or dentures mounted to the implants will not slip or shift within the mouth. The process of implant placement takes several months. You may also have a tooth extraction procedure if there are heavily damaged teeth. Other procedures like bone grafting may be required. Upon assessment, our dentist will determine if there are any additional procedures needed. The dentist discusses all the options with you.
The Dental Implant Procedure
If our dentists decide that dental implant placement is the best option for you, the next step is to prepare your jaw. At this point, a damaged tooth is usually extracted. If the jawbone is too weak, grafting may be required. The jawbone is prepared for the implant, which is then inserted after it has healed. Our dentists will usually wait a few months before placing the crown to allow the bone around the implant to grow and heal. A temporary crown could be cemented into place while the healing process continues. The final step is to cement the replacement tooth onto the dental implant. Overall, this procedure could take several months and numerous visits to the dentist.
Who is Eligible for a Dental Implant?
Anyone who can receive standard surgery procedures can also get dental implants. Finding out if one is a good candidate for dental implants is frequently the first step for those thinking about getting them. One can only enjoy the benefits of the implants if the problems they are looking to solve are addressed. If the implants happen to fail, a dental implant restoration process can help. After a thorough physical examination, our dentist will be able to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Dental implants are a good option for teeth that have been severely decayed or broken beyond repair. The viability of a dental implant, on the other hand, is dependent on the overall condition and health of the mouth, particularly the jawbone. It should also be noted that dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or an entire arch.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants have a much longer lifespan than other tooth replacement options. They are also less likely to fail. Dental implants, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime without the need for maintenance or replacement. Dental implants, unlike natural teeth, have a long lifespan because they do not decay.
Keep in mind, however, that the success of the dental implant is heavily dependent on the patient's prior oral and dental health, particularly the condition of their gums and jawbone.
After implant placement and healing, the patient must make a concerted effort to care for the entire mouth, not just the implanted tooth or teeth. Also, make sure to get regular checkups and cleanings.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants not only have a long lifespan, but they also have numerous other advantages. For starters, they serve as a foundation for the placement of dental implants or dentures. Tooth loss is a serious health issue with significant psychological and cosmetic consequences. Tooth loss can be devastating to one's self-esteem and confidence. Other benefits of dental implants include:
Prevents Bone Loss
You may experience bone loss in the jaw if there are no implants or tooth roots to keep the jaw stimulated. Once you lose teeth and no replacement is done, you could lose up to 25 percent of the jawbone volume. The loss of bone continues over the years. If you choose dentures, they can also hasten bone loss since they often loosen up and rub against the hard tissue or bony ridge, wearing it down over time.
Keeping Adjacent Teeth Stable
Tooth loss has a cascading effect on oral health, resulting in issues such as crooked teeth and decreased jawbone volume. When a tooth is lost, the teeth next to it may shift to fill the gap, making them appear crooked. When this happens, the teeth are pulled out of position, affecting your bite and the ability to chew. It can also make tooth replacement difficult later on. Additionally, a poor bite may lead to problems with the temporomandibular joint, often causing pain and headaches.
Prevents Sagging as well as Premature Aging
The jawbone beneath begins to deteriorate without teeth to stimulate bone growth. Sagging skin and wrinkles around the mouth and face can be avoided with dental implants. As the lower jaw droops and collapses, the distance between the nose and chin shortens. These changes can cause excessive wrinkling around the mouth, thinner lips, and a more prominent chin. As a result, the individual assumes an unnaturally older appearance.
Implants Behave Like the Natural Teeth
Another advantage is that dental implants function similarly to natural teeth. One of the most beneficial aspects of getting an implant is that it restores your natural chewing ability. Even more impressive, the majority of people cannot tell the difference between their implanted and natural teeth. These teeth look and feel exactly like natural teeth, and patients have reported no discomfort when eating with them.
Visit us at Emily Ianno Zaramella, DDS for a full dental examination to determine whether dental implants might be the best option for you and to learn more. Call us today at 512-328-4411 to schedule an appointment with our dentist.
