Should You Get Dental Implants?

Losing a tooth can be uncomfortable in many ways, and dental implants might be the solution you are looking for. When you are missing a tooth, you may not like the look of your mouth, and you may have difficulty chewing. Dentures and bridges are options for you, but if you want a permanent answer, dental implants may be more appealing.

Should you get dental implants?

The primary purpose of a dental implant is to replace a lost tooth. If you are missing a tooth because of decay or injury, a dental implant can act as a substitute. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, dental implants are more than 95% effective.

When you get a dental implant, a metal fixture is installed along your jawbone. This fixture fuses to your jawbone, which in turn acts as a base for artificial teeth to be fitted. These artificial teeth are very similar to real teeth, looking and feeling practically the same.

Dental implants are not appropriate for everyone. If you are prone to gum disease, such as if you smoke or suffer from diabetes, you may wish to try other solutions. However, even if you have this issue, dental implants are not necessarily ruled out. Talk with your dentist to find out whether dental implants are right for you.

While there may be other solutions such as dentures or bridges, these require special care and are not permanent solutions. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent. They are integrated into the jawline and will not come loose. However, implants can be expensive and may not be covered by your insurance company.

Because dental implants are very similar to real teeth, proper oral hygiene can help keep them in top shape. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and visiting your dentist regularly. Avoid hard foods that are tough to chew. Dental implants can stain just like real teeth, so stay away from anything that can tarnish them, such as tobacco and coffee.

Two types of dental implants exist: Endosteal and subperiosteal. For most people, endosteal implants are ideal. These fixtures are made of titanium rods that are surgically installed into your jawbone. You will then need to wait four to six weeks for the metal to fuse with the jawbone. Afterward, your dentist will place an abutment in the area where your artificial teeth will attach.

If you have certain conditions that make installing the metal fixture difficult, such as if your jaw has gone through bone loss or is the wrong shape, subperiosteal implants may be needed. This type of implant is not made of metal and rests on top of your jawbone.