On your journey to restore your smile, you will discover several options. For those who want a permanent solution, dental implants may be the answer. Dental implants are a modern restorative dentistry solution that goes beyond restoring your teeth. They can have a profound impact on your confidence, oral health, and overall well-being. At Ridge Family Dental, we work with existing dental implants to keep your mouth healthy and happy.
What Happens When You Have Missing Teeth
Losing your natural teeth can be a stressful process. It can affect your self-esteem and the look of your smile. However, missing teeth can be more than just a cosmetic concern. Without all of your teeth, you can experience other issues. For example, missing teeth can affect your ability to chew comfortably and enunciate clearly. Furthermore, it can lead to a cascade of oral health issues.
When you lose a tooth, the neighboring teeth can shift. Additionally, your underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate. This not only alters your facial structure, but it can also make you more susceptible to tooth loss.
Beyond the physical aspects, missing teeth can take a toll on your mental well-being. Smiles are powerful expressions of joy. When you are hesitant to share yours due to gaps, it can affect your confidence in social and professional situations.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a complete and long-lasting solution for issues with missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants mimic the natural structure of your teeth. As a result, it provides a stable foundation. Furthermore, they can seamlessly integrate with your existing smile.
There are some key reasons why dental implants might be the perfect choice for you:
Natural Look and Feel: Implants look and feel like your natural teeth. Their resemblance to your original teeth may be striking. You might even forget you ever lost one!
Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Their robustness allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
Preserve Your Jaw: Implants stimulate the jawbone. As a result, this helps to prevent the bone loss commonly associated with missing teeth. This helps maintain your facial structure. It also makes sure that you have a healthy mouth.
Comfort and Stability: Unlike removable dentures, implants securely anchor in your jaw. This provides stability and comfort. You can speak, laugh, and eat with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tooth implants.
Can I get a dental implant years after losing a tooth?
Yes, you can get a tooth implant years after losing a tooth. However, prolonged tooth loss may result in bone loss in the jaw, complicating the implant process. Your dentist might recommend a bone graft to build up the bone. An evaluation will determine the best course of action for successful implantation.
What is a bone graft, and why do some patients need it?
A bone graft is a procedure for adding new bone material to the jawbone. This helps strengthen and build up areas with insufficient bone. If a patient’s jawbone has weakened or deteriorated, they may need a bone graft before dental implants. This ensures a solid foundation for the tooth implant, increasing its chances of success and longevity.
What is the most painful part of getting a dental implant?
The most painful part of getting a dental implant is typically the post-surgery recovery. Anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure, so you shouldn’t feel pain. After the surgery, you might experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed medications help manage this discomfort. Most patients find the pain manageable and worth the long-term benefits of the implant.
Are dental implants better than dentures?
For many people, dental implants often work better than dentures. Implants feel more like natural teeth and stay securely in your mouth. They also help maintain the jawbone, preventing bone loss over time. However, implants can be more expensive and require surgery. Dentures might be a good option if you want something less invasive and more affordable.
Is there an age limit for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit for tooth implants if the patient is healthy enough for the procedure. The important factor is having sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant. Your dentist will assess your oral health and bone structure to determine whether implants are viable. Age itself is not a barrier to receiving dental implants.
What is an abutment on a dental implant?
An abutment is a small connector piece on a dental implant. It attaches the artificial tooth or crown to the implant post embedded in the jawbone. The abutment ensures a secure fit and helps align the crown correctly. It’s a crucial component in the overall structure of the dental implant, providing stability and support.