Patients are increasingly turning to dental implants as an effective and realistic option for replacing lost teeth. However, many still have questions about the procedure, its effectiveness, and what to expect.

What Makes A Patient Suitable For Dental Implants?

Whether or not a person is a good candidate for dental implants depends on many criteria. These include overall health, gum health, and jawbone density. A dental patient must be in good general health to undergo surgery and heal properly afterward. Gum health is crucial because unhealthy gums can lead to implant failure or complications during surgery. Jawbone density is essential because the implant post needs adequate bone support. As a result, a patient will need a bone density test to determine if they are eligible for this treatment.

If you are not compatible with dental implants, other replacement options, such as dentures or bridges, might be a better option. Dentures are removable artificial teeth that can replace some or all of your missing teeth, while bridges use adjacent healthy teeth as support to hold an artificial tooth in place.

How Long Does The Implant Process Take?

The dental implant placement process can take months to a year or more. The initial consultation typically involves discussing your medical history, conducting oral examinations and X-rays, and creating a tailored treatment plan.

Following the consultation phase is the surgical placement of the titanium implant post into your jawbone. Once the jawbone has fused with the titanium post, usually after several months, a dental crown or bridge can be attached to it.

How Secure Are Dental Implants?

Implants for missing teeth are made to last a lifetime and give a firm, reliable anchor for new teeth. During this operation, a titanium anchor is surgically implanted into the jaw to serve as a replacement tooth root. This post will integrate and fuse with the jawbone. This bond ensures that your new tooth will remain in place just like a natural tooth would.

The success and stability of dental implants can be influenced by factors such as patient health, proper surgical placement of the implant post, and diligent oral hygiene practices throughout the healing process.

How Do You Care For Dental Implants?

Caring for dental implants is straightforward and similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and attending regular checkups will help maintain both your natural teeth and implants in optimal condition.

While no special tools or products are specifically required for maintaining dental implants, additional items such as interdental brushes can help keep hard-to-reach areas around the abutment clean.