Dental ImplantsMilwaukee, WI
One of the most remarkable advancements in the cosmetic dental world is the invention of dental implants. Before then, the only alternative for people with missing teeth were bridges and dentures. Dental implants present an appealing and easy solution for people who are missing a tooth due to injury or cavity, giving them a restoration option with a similar appearance and feel of the original tooth.
How it works
Made from titanium and other materials, dental implants are inserted into the jawbone through surgery. The bone grows around the implant and fuses to support it. After the healing period — typically three to six months — the implant will be set for permanent or prosthetic tooth placement on the anchor.
Dentists usually recommend implants for single tooth loss, but implants also work for total tooth loss. There are three primary stages of the implant procedure:
In most situations, the bone needs to be wholly integrated with the implant before the crown is installed. In exceptional cases, the crown may be placed on the implant right after the surgery. If the patient requires more healing time, the dentist may place a temporary replacement until the implant is strong enough for the permanent restoration.
Since the implants fuse to your jawbone, they give the artificial teeth strong backing. If dentures or bridges are installed on the implants, they won’t shift or slip in the mouth, especially when eating or speaking. This secure attachment makes the dentures, bridges and crowns feel normal compared to traditional bridges and dentures.
To get implants, healthy gums and sufficient bone are necessary to support the implant. These structures must also remain in healthy condition, which means you need to keep up proper oral hygiene and regular dental appointments. All these are necessary for a successful procedure.
Should you get dental implants?
Since the invention of implants decades ago, there have been significant improvements to their functions and structure. Before getting implants, however, you need to consider a few points, especially cost and your own medical history.
People with chronic illnesses like diabetes and leukemia are not suitable for dental implants because such diseases hamper the body’s healing capabilities. Patients who have had bisphosphonates (a chemical found in chemotherapy drugs), Fosamax and Boniva (bone-building drugs) would be appropriately screened. Also, people with poor oral health due to smoking may need to quit smoking through cessation programs before qualifying for an implant.
The primary consideration is the state and thickness of the jawbone and the number of implants that would be required for a complete smile restoration. Your oral hygiene habits are also essential for the success of the procedure. Poor hygiene habits can cause infections and implant failure. The dentist or dental hygienist will guide you on adequate care for implants.
Dental implant procedure and costs
Before the procedure, there are essential steps to take. First, you need to visit a dental implant specialist. Your regular doctor can make recommendations to the specialist, usually those practicing periodontology or oral surgery.
The specialist you choose will conduct examinations and diagnostic tests to determine what process is necessary before the implant placement. The tests required depends on the degree of tooth loss, how long the teeth have been missing and the affected jaw (upper or lower). Tests include:
Implants are typically more expensive than other tooth restoration options. The number of implants needed and the surgical procedures necessary usually determine the price.
Advantages of dental implants
Since the appearance and feel of dental implants are similar to the healthy tooth, it could give the patient’s self-esteem a boost. People who find it hard to smile due to gaps in their teeth will feel much more comfortable after getting dental implants.
Aside from the aesthetic benefits, dental implants make eating and talking much easier, since the titanium post placed in the jaw holds the implant firmly. Therefore, it is not movable like dentures. Dental implants also help with oral hygiene, since they do not need to be supported by other teeth, unlike bridges.
In certain cases, some patients cannot use dentures or ordinary bridges comfortably, due to poor ridges, sore spots or gagging.
Types of implants
According to the American Dental Association, there are typically two safe types of implants:
Endosteal implants — These are surgically inserted into the jawbone. After the surrounding gum tissue heals, another surgery is required to place a post on the original implant. Finally, the prosthetic teeth or tooth will be fused to the post or clustered on a bridge or denture.
Subperiosteal implants — These are made from metal frames and fitted onto a jawbone right below the gum tissue. The gum heals progressively to fix the frame to the jawbone. The frame has posts attached to it, protruding through the gums. Afterward, artificial teeth will be placed on the posts.
Dental implant success rates
The success rate of dental implants is based on the affected area of the mouth, but there is typically a 95 percent success rate, according to reports from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS). Since the implants are inserted into the jawbone and gum, not all patients are suitable for the procedure. The dentist will be able to guide you on the best solution.
Caring for dental implants
For a successful implant procedure, excellent dental hygiene routine is necessary. This includes regular flossing and brushing and visits to the dental office. You should note that most insurance companies do not handle dental implant expenses.
In conclusion
Dental implants are a permanent substitute for a lost tooth. They can also be used to hold partial or full dentures firmly in place when they become loose or misaligned. In whatever use, dental implants are a perfect solution for restoring your smile and giving your teeth full functionality. Although they are not for everybody, more adults are opting for this treatment to get their healthy, radiant smile back.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Eastside Dental, request an appointment in our Milwaukee office here: https://www.esdmke.com/contact-us/. Or call us at (414) 888-4000.
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