When it comes to restoration of missing teeth, the best option that dentists have is a dental implant procedure. Even though an implant cannot completely replicate the functionality of a natural tooth substance, it is the closest that a dental professional can come to replicating the natural tooth structure of a missing unit. Installing an implant is somewhat complex, but the failure rate is very low. What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a surgical device that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The device consists of a crown, the visible part; the implant body, which is inserted into the jawbone; and the abutment, which joins the implant body and the crown. The crown of the implant is designed to completely replicate the structure and function of the missing tooth since it is carved into the same anatomy. It is also the same shade as the rest of the teeth in the mouth, which is why it is tough for people to tell apart the implanted tooth from the natural teeth.
A dental implant is fixed into the jawbone after tooth extraction. Implants can even be used to replace the entire missing dentition with the help of the All-on-4® Treatment Concept.
Unlike dental bridges and partial dentures, an implant is completely fixed into the patient’s jawbone and cannot be removed without the help of surgical intervention. Surgical intervention is only necessary when the implanted tooth gets injured or causes problems for the patient.
A dental implant works just like regular teeth do. Once it is inside the mouth, the patient can use it just like they would use the rest of their teeth in their daily lives. Patients are often unaware that one of their teeth is an implant.
Who Performs the Procedure?
An implantologist is a dentist who specializes in implanting techniques and is most commonly the dentist who performs this procedure. However, prosthodontists, endodontists, and general dentists can perform implantology.
If you believe you will be most suited to the use of a dental implant, you can visit our practice and let Dr. Richard Baldwin examine the areas with the missing teeth. There are very few contraindications to the use of implants in patients, and if you do not match those conditions, you will be cleared for an implant procedure by the doctors immediately.
Advantages of Dental Implants
There are many advantages to the use of dental implants. Because dental implants are so advantageous, they are quickly taking over the use of bridges, crowns, and dentures in people. Some of the advantages of dental implants include the following:
Completely Resembles Natural Teeth
The most apparent advantage of a dental implant is that it completely resembles a natural tooth. One of the concerns people have with dentures, crowns, and dental bridges is that sometimes the person can tell them apart if they look closely. This is not the case with dental implants, which blend perfectly with the teeth.
Other than that, the supporting structure of the implant is inside the jawbone and not outside. This is why the supporting structure cannot be seen, unlike in a dental bridge, partial dentures, and other treatments where the wires and the mesh are sometimes visible.
Very Little Maintenance
A dental implant needs very little maintenance. This maintenance is also often performed by the dentist, not the patient. Since the material of the implant is synthetic and not natural, it is not susceptible to bacterial attacks as well. This means that the implant will not decay.
You do need to clean the implant, however. But simple brushing and flossing are usually enough to prevent any damage that can come to the implant in general.
Low Chance of Failure
There is very little chance of failure of the dental implant as well. The chances of failure of an implant are much lower than those of other dental devices such as bridges and dentures.
Strong
A dental implant is very strong. It can handle the occlusal load of a normal tooth, which means you can use it just like your natural teeth. A well-placed implant will only break down if it has been injured or if the patient is experiencing periodontal concerns such as bone loss.
Does Not Affect Functionality
There is no negative impact on the functionality of a patient’s oral cavity with the installation of an implant. They can chew and eat whatever they want without being concerned about it coming loose or wearing off.
Lasts for a Long Time
Unlike most other solutions to dental problems, an implant can last very long. It is supposed to be a permanent solution to tooth loss and can easily last 30 years or more if installed properly.
Disadvantages of An implant
There are a few disadvantages to implant installation, such as:
They Are Expensive
Implants are the most effective yet the most expensive solution to tooth loss. Insurance typically does not cover it, so it may not be for everyone.
They Require Surgery
People with diseases such as diabetes and blood disorders are apprehensive when surgeries are involved and might not prefer, or be eligible, for implants for this reason.
When Should We Not Install an Implant?
There are certain times when a patient should not consider implants. For example, people who have suffered from a heart attack in the past six months, people with immunosuppressive disorders, people with severe blood diseases, and people who have been undergoing cancer treatment such as chemotherapy. The doctor will be able to guide you about whether implantology is a good idea for you or not.
Are You Ready for Dental Implants?
Implantology is the most effective solution for tooth loss. To book your consultation for an implant procedure at Ranches Family Dental, call (385) 374-0500 and schedule your appointment today.
