Just because a tooth extraction is necessary doesn’t mean you will always have a gap in your mouth for the rest of your life. Dental implants are one of the most common ways to restore missing teeth. As the technology has advanced over the years, it’s easy to see why this treatment is gaining in popularity.
Why Dental Implants Are a Great Choice
As you are considering different types of restorative treatments, take the time to learn about dental implants and the many available benefits. This restoration is designed with a small post that substitutes the root of your tooth, creating an anchor where the new tooth/teeth can be secured.
Dental implants are a preferred solution if you have any missing teeth that were lost due to decay, an accident, gum disease, or a facial injury. Sometimes, implants are also necessary due to birth deformities or as an anchor for dental prosthetics (implant-supported dentures).
When dental implants are in place, they act and feel like a natural tooth. So, this restoration can positively impact your appearance, speech, ability to eat, and overall comfort throughout the day.
Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants
Who can get dental implants? Specific requirements need to be considered to determine if dental implants are the proper treatment for you. Dental implants might be recommended if you meet these guidelines:
- Age: Dental implants are best for adults because it’s necessary for the facial features and jaw bone to be done growing. Sometimes, older teenagers can receive this treatment if their bones are no longer growing.
- Jawbone: There must be enough jawbone available to secure the placement of the implant post. A bone graft might be used if the bone isn’t dense enough or strong enough.
- Gums: The gum tissue surrounding the treatment area should be healthy and free of disease.
- Health: The dentist will want to make sure you are in good health overall.
The dentist will schedule an examination and consultation if you are considering dental implants. In addition to looking at your teeth and digital imaging, the dentist will ask questions about your dental habits, health history, and more.
There are a few conditions that might increase the risk of dental implants, such as heart disease, diabetes, bone loss conditions, gum disease, and more. Your dentist will discuss the risks to help you decide whether these other health conditions will limit your ability for a successful outcome.
Modern Technology for Dental Implants
The good news is that many advances in the dental industry make implants more successful than ever. As a result, a higher percentage of patients have positive results after receiving dental implants.
If you are considering these dental restorations, reach out to us at myDental. Not only do we offer dental implants and other cosmetic treatments, but we also offer general dentistry (including cleanings and examinations). You can schedule an appointment at our nearby locations. Reach out to us if you would like more information about available services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Good candidates for dental implants are adults with one or more missing teeth who have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant post. They should be in generally good health and free of uncontrolled conditions like diabetes or gum disease that could interfere with healing. Non-smokers or those willing to quit tend to have the best outcomes.
A single dental implant, including the post, abutment, and crown, typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000. Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, though many classify implants as elective and offer limited coverage. Financing options and payment plans are widely available to help make the investment more affordable.
The full dental implant process typically takes four to nine months. After the titanium post is placed in the jawbone, a healing period of three to six months is needed for the bone to fuse around the implant. The final crown is then attached during a shorter follow-up appointment once healing is confirmed.
A bone grafting procedure can build up the jawbone to create a strong enough foundation for an implant. Bone grafts use either the patient’s own bone, donor bone, or synthetic material to restore volume and density. The graft typically needs three to six months to heal before the implant can be placed.
Dental implants are the most durable and natural-feeling option because they are anchored directly into the jawbone and function like real teeth. Bridges require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth for support, while dentures can slip and may need adhesive. Schedule a consultation to determine which tooth replacement option is the best match for specific dental and health needs.
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