Way too many people take their teeth for granted. You brush and floss them every day and maybe visit your dentist for a cleaning once or twice a year. But what would you do if you lost one or more of your teeth?
When you’re missing one or more teeth, it’s natural to feel self-conscious. Not only does it look bad, but it can also make it difficult to eat, smile, and speak properly. Fortunately, dental implants can help restore your smile and all other teeth functions.
So, what exactly are dental implants? And more importantly, when is the right time to consider dental implants? Let’s dig in!
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed in your jawbone to serve as the roots of your teeth. They provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth, which are attached to the implants.
The replacement teeth, also known as dental crowns, can be made from porcelain or ceramic and shaped to look and feel like your natural teeth. In fact, once they’re in place, you may forget you ever lost a tooth (or teeth) in the first place!
When should you consider Dental Implants?
Many people think that dental implants are only for people who have severely damaged teeth or are of old age. However, there are several reasons you may want to consider dental implants, even if most of your teeth are in good condition. Here are some of them.
- If you’ve lost one or more teeth due to an injury, disease, or decay.
- If you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to wear dentures, such as Sjogren’s syndrome or osteoporosis.
- If you have a jawbone that has begun to shrink.
- If you have a tooth that is damaged or decayed.
- If you’re unhappy with your current teeth.
- If you have loose dentures, dental implants can help to stabilize them and make them more comfortable to wear. They can also help improve your ability to chew and speak properly.
So, if you’re missing one or more teeth and are looking for a way to restore your smile, then dental implants might be right for you. Talk to your dental professional to see if they’re an option for you.
Can anyone get Dental Implants?
Most people who want dental implants are good candidates. However, there are a few things that can make you ineligible for dental implants, such as:
- You have an active infection in your mouth
- Your jawbone isn’t dense enough to support the implants
- You’re a heavy smoker
- You have diabetes
If you have any of these conditions, you might not be able to get dental implants. However, it’s advisable to talk to an experienced dentist first about your situation. They’ll be able to assess whether or not you’re a good candidate for dental implants and help you make the best decision for your oral health.
What’s involved in getting a dental implant?
The first step is to consult with a dental implant specialist to see if dental implants are right for you. If they are, the next step is to have a dental implant placed. This is a surgical procedure that’s usually done under local anesthesia.
After the implant is placed, you’ll need to wait for it to heal and integrate with your jawbone. This usually takes several weeks. Once the implant has healed, you’ll need to come back in for a second surgery to have the replacement tooth (or teeth) placed on top of the implant.
Finally, you’ll need to take care of your dental implants just like you would your natural teeth. This means brushing and flossing them every day and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Nonetheless, if you have any questions or concerns about dental implants, be sure to talk to a dental implant expert. They’ll be able to help you keep your implants in good shape so that you can enjoy them for years to come.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits, including:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants can restore your smile and give you back your confidence. They look and feel like your natural teeth, so no one will even know you have them.
- Restores teeth function: Dental implants are much stronger and more stable than dentures or bridges. They’re also easier to care for than natural teeth, so you won’t have to worry about them slipping out of place or getting cavities.
- Enhanced speech: With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth, making you mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without worrying that your teeth might slip.
- Increased comfort: Because dental implants become a part of you, there are no annoying clicking sounds or slipping teeth as with dentures. And unlike dentures, which can feel bulky and loose, implants are snug and secure. You’ll also have an easier time eating with dental implants since they function similar to your natural teeth.
- Improved dental and overall health: Dental implants can also help preserve your jawbone and prevent it from deteriorating. This is because they act as artificial roots and stimulate the bone when you bite and chew.
- Enhanced quality of life: Dental implants make it easier to eat, talk, laugh, and enjoy all your favorite foods. They also allow you to maintain good oral hygiene. And because they’re permanent, you don’t have to worry about them constantly as you might do with dentures.
Bottomline
If you’re missing one or more teeth, have difficulty eating, are unhappy with your dentures, or have a damaged tooth, then dental implants might be an option for you. Schedule an appointment with a dental implant expert at Misch Implant Dentistry to see if dental implants are right for you.