Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

The popularity of dental implants is on the rise, and for good reason. They are known as the closest tooth replacement option to natural teeth. In this way, they not only restore the natural appearance of a person's smile but also restore its original function.

Though dental implants offer many exciting benefits, they may not be right for everyone. So, how do you know if they are the right choice for you? This article will explain dental implants, their benefits, and what makes someone a good candidate.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small screw-like posts, usually made of titanium but sometimes made of zirconium oxide. The dentist surgically implants this post into a patient's jawbone, where it acts as a replacement root and support for the replacement tooth or set of teeth. Dental implants can replace single teeth, multiple teeth in a row, or an entire arch of teeth. Sometimes, they are even used to support removable dentures.

The benefits

Appearance and convenience are among the most cited reasons patients choose dental implants. They look almost indistinguishable from natural teeth. In addition, they hold teeth firmly in place, so there is no worry of the teeth slipping or falling out, as with other tooth replacement options. Also, patients can care for their dental implants like they did their natural teeth and do not have to take an appliance out for cleaning or soaking.

Dental implants are highly durable. Though the top part of the implant will eventually need replacing, the implant posts can last a lifetime with proper care. However, the most exciting benefit may be the stimulation dental implants provide the jawbone. When teeth go missing for a long period of time, jawbone density is lost due to the loss of the tooth root. With a dental implant, the root is replaced to continue to stimulate the jawbone, keeping it strong and preventing undesirable changes in facial structure or shifting of surrounding teeth.

The process

One important thing for anyone considering dental implants to know is that it can be a long process. Getting a dental implant can typically take anywhere from four to nine months. The process involves multiple procedures. After the surgery to place the implant post in the jawbone, there is a healing period, and the patient must wait for the implant to fuse with the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. The process can take longer if a patient needs bone grafting to strengthen their jawbone.

Who is a good candidate?

For someone to be a good candidate, they must be willing to commit to this long process. In addition, the patient must be healthy enough for surgery. Having adequate jawbone density to support the implant is a leading requirement. However, most patients can meet this if they are willing and able to undergo bone grafting.

This ideal candidate should have healthy gums and good oral hygiene habits. Quitting smoking is highly encouraged because smoking is not only an unhealthy habit but is detrimental to healing. Also, patients who grind their teeth will want to consider getting a night guard to protect their new smile because teeth grinding puts a lot of stress on implants and can cause them to fail.