Dental implants have revolutionized dental care for patients over the last few decades. The quality of life for patients has improved dramatically; in the past, people were subjected to dentures that weren’t secure. People weren’t able eat, talk, or even smile without fear of the devices moving. What was once an industry where no other alternatives existed except bridges or dentures, now dental implants are readily available with a very high success rate (97 percent). Implants are an option where tooth loss, tooth decay, injury, or periodontal disease are present.
DENTAL IMPLANTS EXPLAINED
WHAT EXACTLY IS A DENTAL IMPLANT?
Dental implants are a complete replacement of the tooth roots, and a patient must have both healthy gums and sufficient bone mass. Dental implants are structures that consist of metal frames or posts that are secured just under the gum tissue and fuses with the bone. Once the implant is placed, artificial teeth can be set. Two types of dental implants can be performed: Endosteal implants – This type of implant is surgically inserted directly into the jawbone. Once the tissue had healed, a post is surgically placed below the gums to unite both the post and the implant.
Subperiosteal implants – This implant is constructed of a metal frame that is placed just beneath the gum tissue on the jawbone, and once healed, the frame is fastened to the jawbone. Posts are then attached to the frame, and eventually, artificial teeth are placed to complete the procedure.
WILL THIS PROCEDURE BE PAINFUL?
Dental implants are an outpatient procedure performed by your dentist under local anesthesia or sedation. At Schweichler Dental Care, we use state-of-the-art technology, including computer-assisted anesthesia, called The Wand. The Wand is able to administer a more accurate dosage, as well as a more precise administration, which means less pain for the patient!
ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
Most importantly, dental implants preserve and protect healthy teeth. In alternative procedures, such as bridges or dentures, dental tools are used to alter the affected teeth or tooth, often damaging healthy teeth that surround it. Dental implants are fixed to the jawbone avoiding other teeth completely, keeping them healthy and in tip-top shape! In addition, dental implants also protect healthy bone by supporting the natural bone around it, causing preservation and bone stimulation. Dental implants are the only restoration procedures that are bone preserving! When comparing it to a total tooth removal, the space leaves the surrounding teeth unsupported and deteriorates the jawbone. Dental implants are also a wonderful alternative because they are secured in your mouth, permanently. Dentures have the unfortunate side effect of moving while eating, talking, coughing, laughing, or even kissing. Many time-consuming adjustments have to made throughout the day, often affecting the quality of life for the patient. Dental implants also keep your teeth where they belong…in your mouth! Another disadvantage concerning dentures is the oral care that happens outside the mouth for brushing and flossing. Again, implants are fixed so there is no removal; they’re just like having real teeth!
WHY CHOOSE A DENTAL IMPLANT?
Overall, choosing a dental implant has many more advantages than disadvantages, compared to the alternatives. You’re able to live your fully; eating your favorite foods, laughing and smiling all without the constant anxiety of dentures falling out or moving. Choosing a dental implant stimulates bone growth and preservation and keeps surrounding teeth healthy!