While the hope is that you can maintain your natural teeth for many years, there are situations where it might be necessary to extract one or more teeth. One of the most important things you should consider after extraction is the type of dental restoration you choose. Dental implants are a popular choice for many reasons. In this article, we’re looking at why dental implants are the ideal solution for permanent teeth replacement.
Dental Implants: What Are They?
You’ve probably heard of dental implants before, but do you know how they are designed and how they work? This modern dental treatment is an effective and natural-looking way to replace missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits when the restoration is complete.
There are several important parts of the dental implant structure:
- Implant: The actual implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone. This post acts as the “root” of the tooth and provides the foundation for the rest of the dental restoration.
- Abutment: On top of the post, an abutment is placed. This connecting piece holds the restoration to the dental implant post.
- Restoration: The visible portion of the dental implant is the restoration used to replace missing teeth. A dental crown is usually used for a single tooth restoration. If multiple teeth need to be replaced, then your dentist might recommend a dental bridge or implant-supported dentures.
The dental implant procedure starts with a thorough evaluation to determine if you are an ideal candidate for this treatment. Then, you will schedule an appointment for the first visit: a surgical treatment to place the implant post into your jawbone.
After the post is in place, it takes time for osseointegration to occur. The bone will fuse to the implant post, and this process usually requires several months before a solid foundation is in place to hold the visible dental restoration.
Dental Implant Benefits: Why Choose This Restoration
Even though the dental implant procedure is a little more involved compared to other types of dental restorations, it’s worth the time and investment because of the long-term benefits you can enjoy. Some of these benefits include:
- Natural Restoration: Dental implants are designed to mimic the natural structure of a tooth. The goal is to make the implant and restoration look and feel as normal and natural as possible.
- Avoid Shifting Teeth: Did you know that gaps in your mouth can lead to complications later on? Dental implants after tooth extraction offer an effective solution to prevent nearby teeth from shifting. If the gap is left open, then it’s likely that the other teeth will move over time.
- Prevent Bone Loss: Another common complication after tooth extraction is that bone loss can occur. The placement of an implant into the jawbone helps to strengthen the bone and reduce the risk of bone loss.
- Easy to Maintain: Since dental implants function like a normal tooth, you simply need to brush and floss like normal. Stay consistent with your oral health habits, and you can expect your dental implant to last for many years.
- Long-Lasting Restoration: When you are consistent with proper care, a good dental implant can last a lifetime. It’s a great investment, especially since other types of restorations often need to be replaced over time.
- Better Quality of Life: Replacing missing teeth is important so that you can talk, smile, and eat with confidence. When you are comparing the function of dental implants vs. dentures, implants are the preferred solution because your speaking and eating functions are normal.
- Comfort and Convenience: The overall comfort and convenience of dental implants is unmatched. Every patient receives a customized design, ensuring the implant fits perfectly with the rest of your smile.
3 Steps to Complete a Dental Implant
What should you expect when you decide to move forward with dental implants? There are three main steps that need to occur to complete the design and treatment.
First, a comprehensive assessment needs to be done. The dentist will determine whether you have sufficient bone density and let you know if bone grafting is necessary to provide the foundation to hold the implant in place. During this appointment, 3D imaging can be used to design your custom treatment plan.
On the day of your dental surgery, local anesthesia is used to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure. Our team is proactive about maintaining the highest quality standards, helping you feel relaxed and at ease while in the dental chair.
The healing and osseointegration process usually takes 3 – 6 months. During this time, you will have a temporary restoration in place, and you will need to come in for follow-up appointments to make sure the implant is healing correctly.
Once the implant is secured and strong in your jawbone, then it’s time to place the restoration on top of the abutment.
Tips: Caring for Dental Implants
It is simple to care for your dental implants. You should brush and floss the implant in the same way that you take care of the rest of your teeth. Daily care is essential to prevent complications.
FAQ
How long does dental implant surgery take?
Each implant usually requires 1 – 2 hours to place in the jawbone. Multiple implants can be placed during the same appointment if needed.
What should I expect for dental implants cost?
The out-of-pocket expenses depend on how much your dental insurance will pay for the treatment. Most patients have partial coverage through their insurance, and the rest of the treatment will need to be paid by the patient.
Are dental implants right for me?
Many patients are good candidates for this restorative treatment, especially because dental implants can be customized to match your unique needs. We offer a single dental implant as well as full-mouth implants if necessary.
Call the Dental Implant Experts
If you need tooth restoration, then it’s time to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We will evaluate your needs and help you design the ideal treatments to help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. Contact Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas today.
