Millions of Americans still suffer tooth loss despite the advancements in dentistry. Tooth loss can be due to periodontitis, tooth decay, or an injury, but the consequences are the same regardless of the cause. For example, even losing one tooth can affect your appearance and confidence. You may not immediately realize other effects of tooth loss as some of these changes are subtle and occur over time. Thankfully, with dental implants Greenwich, your dentist can eliminate the negative effects of missing teeth, improving your oral health and overall outlook.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made out of titanium or zirconium oxide. These metal screw-like posts are surgically embedded in your jawbone to offer solid support for artificial teeth that look and function like natural ones. They provide a welcome alternative, especially if you can’t or are unwilling to wear dentures or bridges. Because dental implants are placed in your jawbone, the bone takes several months to heal around the implant, securing it in place. As such, the implants won’t slip the way dentures or bridgework might.
Benefits of dental implants
Dental implants have many advantages, but one of the most significant ones is that implants restore your chewing power and prevent bone loss. As stated above, dental implants are surgically placed in your jawbone and fuse with your bone to become part of your mouth. Because of the stability of dental implants, you can eat your favorite foods without chewing difficulties that you would otherwise experience with dentures.
Dental implants replace your missing tooth roots and restore natural stimulation, vital to prevent bone loss. Additionally, implants restore the integrity of your smile and help you feel better about yourself. Another main benefit of implants is that they are durable and require no special care; with proper care, dental implants can serve you a lifetime.
Are dental implants appropriate for everyone?
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, meaning not everyone will be eligible for this treatment. If you have missing teeth and are considering getting dental implants, a consultation with your dentist will help you know if you are a good candidate. Before dental implant surgery, your provider will evaluate your mouth to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. Issues like gum disease will require treatment before you can proceed with the procedure. You should also be committed to regular dental visits and willing to commit several months to the process.
Your dentist may advise against this tooth replacement option if you have uncontrolled chronic disorders like heart disease or diabetes. These medical conditions can interfere with healing and increase your risk of infection at the incision site, causing dental implantation failure. Your provider will also need to evaluate if you have had radiation therapy to the head or neck.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
The success rate of dental implants varies depending on where the implants are embedded in the jaw, but generally, the success rate of these permanent fixtures is as high as 98%. With such statistics, you can feel confident when choosing dental implants to replace missing teeth.
If you have dental implant questions, consult your Greenwich Dentistry provider.
