How Do Dental Implants Work?
A dental implant is today's best replacement for a missing or damaged tooth. These appliances replace both the root and crown of a compromised tooth, providing natural function and an attractive appearance.
Patients with problem teeth may be interested in receiving implants but find the procedure too lengthy or complex. This article explains how dental implants work, shares their benefits, and explains the surgical process.
The Facts About Dental Implants
A dental implant is a prosthodontic appliance that replicates the function and appearance of a natural tooth. Tooth replacements like dentures and bridges can significantly improve a patient's appearance and chewing ability, but they do not replace the root system.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Protect Oral Health
Since dental implants replace the root and crown of a missing tooth, they protect patients' oral health. Without replacing a tooth, its neighbors may slip into its space, causing tooth alignment issues and raising your chance of gum disease and tooth decay. Food and plaque may also gather in the spaces between your teeth.
Restore Natural Function
Implants provide excellent chewing ability and can help patients speak more clearly. They feel natural when you bite and chew.
Preserve Tooth Alignment
Dental implants stand in for a tooth's roots, keeping other teeth from shifting into a space.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining a denture or bridge is significantly more complex than caring for a dental implant. The care that implants require is similar to that of a healthy tooth. Brushing, flossing, and attending all dental appointments are typically enough to keep an implant healthy.
Contrast this level of care with the complex routines needed to maintain bridges and dentures. Dental implants save you valuable time.
Eat What You Like
Dental implants do not have food restrictions, though taking some basic precautions is wise. You can eat nearly any food you want, though you should exercise caution with sticky food, as this could damage or dislodge your crowns.
Parts of a Dental Implant
- Implant Anchor: Your dentist surgically implants this part in your jawbone. Over time, your implant anchor bonds with your bone in a complex process known as osseointegration. Once the bone and implant bond, they create a sturdy base for your replacement tooth.
- Abutment: A small stainless steel cap sits on top of the anchor and provides a strong attachment point for the implant crown.
- Crown: The part of your implant visible above the gum line is called the crown. It replaces the functional part of your tooth.
About Dental Implant Surgery
Consultation
First, you will meet with your dentist and discuss your needs and expectations. Your dentist will then assist you in deciding whether implants are the best choice for your situation.
Extractions
When it is time to proceed with your surgery, you may need teeth extracted first. Your gums will need to heal in order to place the implants, and this may take weeks or months.
Anchor Placement
Your dentist will make a small opening in your gum tissue and bone. Then, using computer guidance and advanced imaging, they will carefully place the implant post in the jawbone, ensuring it is appropriately positioned.
Restoration
After a healing period, when your jawbone bonds with the anchor, you will receive your final restoration, depending on how many teeth you need to replace, you may opt for a crown, bridge, or full-arch implant.
Keeping Your Dental Implants Healthy
- Treat problems like osteoporosis, gum disease, and diabetes before receiving implants, as these conditions can impact the healing process.
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice each day
- If you clench or grind your teeth, inquire about receiving a dental mouthguard to protect your implants
- If possible, cease tobacco use since it interferes with healing
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Are dental implants noticeable?
Today, implants look natural. Most people will not notice that you have a dental implant. Close friends and family will observe that you are no longer missing a tooth and will be happy for you.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants succeed about 95 percent of the time when properly cared for. They represent a solid investment in your self-image and well-being.
Call Dr. Kim Arnold Family Dentistry
Dental implants can increase your self-confidence and improve your life. If you want to know more, please call our Russell, KY office at (606) 836-6022 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Arnold will gladly meet with you and explain everything you need to know.