As you age or have increasing dental issues, your dentist may recommend removing some or all of your teeth. When this happens, you have a couple of options to keep your mouth in working order. With a little research, you may wonder if dental implants are a good option for you to consider.

Choosing between Dentures or Implants

Dentures or dental implants are the most common choices to replace missing teeth. Dentures can be full or partial sets that replace any missing teeth. They need to be carefully maintained and removed during sleep. Dentures can be a good option for patients more advanced in age or if you want a less invasive solution. They function mostly like natural teeth, but some patients experience difficulty chewing certain foods. Over time, dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced if they become chipped or cracked. Dentures are generally less expensive than implants and can provide a good option for patients that need a cost-effective solution.

Many patients, however, prefer a longer lasting solution. Dental implants are implanted into the jawbone, require normal dental hygiene for maintenance and can last for many years without issue.

Considerations for Dental Implants:

• Health of the jawbone and gums to support the posts
• Patients in their 60s or younger may want a longer-lasting solution
• Feels and acts like your natural teeth
• Easier cleaning and maintenance compared to dentures
• Committed to a process that could take several months
• More expensive option

Dental Implant Process

After determining through a series of exams that you are good candidate for dental implants, your dentist will begin the process by removing any damaged teeth. The oral surgeon will then implant posts into you jawbone. These serve as the root for the new tooth. Your dentist will likely provide you with some sort of temporary denture while the bone fuses around these new posts. It may take several months for your jawbone to heal enough to hold the posts in, but this will provide a solid foundation for your future artificial teeth. Once your bone has united with the surface of the dental implants, your dentist may need to place an abutment that attaches the implant to your gums where the crown will eventually attach. Your dentist may choose to place the abutment during your initial surgery. Once your gums heal, your dentist will make an impression of your mouth to create the crown. At this point in the process, the dentist can place the realistic artificial teeth to unveil your final product. The whole process takes several months, but the end result will likely last for the rest of your life.

Conclusion

Dental implants are successful more than 95% of the time and provide a permanent solution over dentures. They are safe and effective with a high rate of patient satisfaction. If you think dental implants may be a good option for you, Dental Remedies can walk you through the entire process from consultation to maintenance, providing you with an individualized treatment plan.