Updated 3/23/22
Dental implant treatment is a restorative option for anyone who may have missing teeth. Dental implants replace missing teeth without affecting the adjacent or changing the natural tooth structure. Before any dental implant procedure, the cosmetic dentist makes a clinical assessment to ascertain whether the patient is the right candidate for a dental implant. Apart from replacing missing teeth, dental implants are also used in supporting removing dentures by providing a comfortable and secure fit. There are several advantages and disadvantages of dental implants, and one needs to have enough information about the procedure. Improved comfort and improved oral health are among the advantages of dental implants. The process leaves your other teeth intact, thus improving your oral health.
All teeth implants can last a lifetime if they are cared for properly. Understanding everything about dental implants can prepare you for the procedure and the maintenance of your dental implants after the surgical installation. If you wonder whether you are the best fit for a dental implant, worry no more. If you are considered healthy for oral surgery or routine dental extraction, you can also undergo a dental implant procedure.
About half of all adults in North America were toothless 100 years ago, but thanks to improved dental care and awareness, less than 10% of adults over age 65 experience tooth loss. For those that still do, there are more and more options for tooth replacement all the time, so there’s no reason for anyone to live without teeth.
Right now though, the two frontrunners are dental implants and dentures. But which option is right for your tooth replacement?
Dentures are false teeth appliances, and though they’ve improved over the years, they’re not suited to everyone. Many require sticky and irritating adhesives, and they may slip or fall out during speech or eating. Dentures that are fitted incorrectly may cause infection and decay in remaining teeth, leading to more dental work. However, for patients with unhealthy gums or weak jaws, this might be your best option.
For patients with missing teeth and otherwise good oral health, dental implants are probably better. Dental implants are titanium screws that are placed in the tooth socket to serve as a replacement root. Single implants can be capped with a single crown, or several can be used to support a larger prosthetic like an entire row of replacement teeth. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care have a success rate as high as 98%, and they look and function like real teeth.
Consult your dentist to find out whether dental implants or dentures are right for your teeth!
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