5 Benefits Of Getting Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option for missing or damaged teeth. They are small posts that imitate the roots of your tooth, to which your prosthetic teeth are then connected on top. Implant solutions are designed to function and appear just like your natural teeth, providing a permanent and durable solution for tooth loss.
Your eligibility for dental implants may differ based on individual factors such as oral health, bone density and overall health. A comprehensive examination and discussion with one of our experienced dentists is necessary to determine if implants are the right choice for you.
Benefits of implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits for individuals looking to restore their smile. Some of these benefits include:
- Longevity and durability
Dental implants are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, they have the potential to last a lifetime. Our implants are made from high-quality materials like titanium. They are biocompatible, resistant to decay and are able to withstand daily biting and chewing forces.
- Enhanced chewing and eating
Dental implants restore your ability to bite and chew comfortably. Having strong and secure dental implants allows you to enjoy a wide range of foods without restrictions or worrying about your restorations breaking.
- Natural-looking teeth
Dental implant restorations are designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the size, colour and shape of your existing teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking smile.
- Improved speech
Ill-fitting dentures or missing teeth can affect your speech clarity and pronunciation. The stability of dental implants allow you to speak clearly and confidently. You don’t have to worry about mumbled speech or dentures slipping around in your mouth any longer.
- Prevent bone loss
When a tooth is missing or extracted, the underlying jawbone can start to deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants provide a solution by replacing the missing tooth root and stimulating the jawbone. This helps prevent bone loss in the jaw.
How does it work
Dental implants consist of three main components. The implant fixture which is the titanium post, the abutment which is a connector attached on top of it and the crown or prosthesis secured to it, which is the custom-made natural tooth.
Here’s our simple process for getting dental implants:
Initial evaluation
We will examine your oral health, take necessary x-rays and scans to assess the condition of your jawbone and determine if you are a suitable candidate for implants.
Treatment planning
According to your unique case, a suitable treatment plan will be developed. This plan takes into factors such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone and your specific dental needs.
Implant Placement
Under local anesthesia, a small incision will be strategically made to expose the jawbone. The implant fixture, which is usually made of titanium, is then carefully inserted into the prepared site.
Osseointegration
A process called osseointegration takes place after the implant placement. This is when the jawbone fuses with the implant fixture through a natural process of bone growth over a period of months. This integration provides a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
Abutment placement
Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached. The abutment is a connector that sticks out above the gum line and serves as the attachment point for your replacement tooth.
Restoration
After the gums have healed with the abutment in place, the placement of the replacement tooth or teeth is the final step. It is custom-made by our implant dentists to ensure a seamless and natural-looking result.
Follow-up care
Regular follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor the healing process and ensure the success of your dental implant. Our dental professionals will provide instructions for oral hygiene and maintenance of the implant.
Types of dental implants
The specific type of dental implants used depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, the patient’s oral health, jawbone condition and desired outcome of the treatment. Some common type of dental implants include:
All-on-four
All-on-four is an implant-supported full arch dental restoration. A full set of teeth, either upper or lower arch is supported by 4 implants. This is an great solution for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant supported-dentures are a type of dental restoration that combines dental implants and dentures. They provide increased stability and improved function compared to traditional removable dentures. It is used to replace several lost teeth at once.
Bridges
Dental bridges consist of artificial teeth known as pontics that are anchored to the adjacent natural teeth. However, they can also be combined with dental implants if you have sets of 3 or more adjacent missing teeth. Bridges are designed to ‘bridge’ the gap created by missing teeth, restoring the appearance, function, and alignment of your teeth.
Your smile is unique and the type of dental implants for you will depend on it. By visiting one of our dentists at Purity Dental, we will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most suitable type of treatment option. So, schedule a consultation today to get started!