Dental implants have joined the list of replacement options for missing teeth, with many patients preferring the look and feel of implants to dentures or bridges. In addition to providing patients with natural-looking teeth, implants are effective in restoring confidence and making eating or speaking more comfortable. They also can improve an individual’s oral health. However, some patients make better candidates for implants than others.
An implant replaces a missing took with a replacement tooth root fused to the jawbone where removable or permanent replacement teeth can then be attached. There are several areas that this process can improve for a patient:
When compared to dentures or bridges, implants are better at restoring normal oral functions. Dentures can slip and slide, making chewing or speaking difficult and uncomfortable. These situations can be embarrassing and cause poor self-esteem, anxiety, and frustration. Implants allow patients to be more confident that their replacement teeth will stay in place, remain functional, and provide long-term oral support.
For those who have experienced significant tooth decay or loss at an early age, dentures and bridges do not offer the same durability as implants. The composition of the implant is a titanium alloy, similar to what is found in a knee or hip implant. As a highly biocompatible product, there are few concerns with bodily rejection or allergic reaction to the implant. Implants are not affected by tooth decay, and with the right home care practices, this treatment can last for a lifetime.
Implants have the same care requirements as natural teeth. It is still recommended to brush and floss the teeth twice a day and to use an antibacterial mouthwash each day. Regular dental checkups should also be scheduled. While tooth decay cannot happen to an artificial tooth, problems with gum disease can impact the overall success of lasting implants.
Not everyone who has experienced tooth loss may want to pursue implants. For a majority of cases, individuals healthy enough to undergo oral surgery or a routine dental extraction are good candidates for this treatment.
Missing teeth may be a result of tooth decay, injury, or periodontal disease, and patients wishing to receive implants must commit to regular dental visits and good oral hygiene. Patients also need to have enough bone material to securely hold the implant. When these requirements are met, implants typically have a 90% or higher success rate.
Those who have not yet had their adult teeth fully come in should not get implants. Patients who are heavy smokers or who suffer from uncontrolled or unmanaged chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes may require special evaluation of the condition before being approved for implant surgery. The same is true for those who have had radiation in the neck or head area.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants in Kennewick, WA
Patients with one or more missing teeth may be a good candidate for dental implants. Speak with an oral care provider to determine eligibility for this treatment.
Request an appointment or call Gledhill Dental at 509-800-8410 for an appointment in our Kennewick office.
Dental implants can prevent problems resulting from tooth loss. Some people need these restorations because they do not want to use unstable, removable tooth replacements. Others want to have a natural look. Finding out your eligibility for this treatment is crucial in achieving your dental health goals. If you want to know if you are…
Dental implants have emerged as the standard for replacing missing teeth in general dentistry. These artificial teeth roots can last a lifetime once placed in the jaw. About 5 million new implants are placed each year.Implants can be used to restore front teeth and any other type of teeth. Implants installed in the front of…
If someone is missing teeth, one of the options for replacing them is dental implants. According to the CDC, one in five adults over 65 have severe tooth loss. Tooth loss may occur due to untreated cavities, gingivitis, and oral trauma. There are numerous benefits to getting implants, although it is not necessarily an option…
A smile makeover may be the answer for people who are embarrassed to show their teeth. A makeover consists of one or more dental procedures that treat or cover up imperfections with the gums or teeth. There are various methods that a dentist may use to change the appearance of one's smile, and they range…
Choosing a family dentist can be daunting, especially if you are new to a neighborhood or city. However, a family dentist is an important member of your healthcare team and can help you maintain good oral health for your entire family. The following blog includes tips to help you choose a family dentist that is…