How to Determine if a Dental Implant Procedure is Right for You

Dental implants are among the best long-term solutions for patients with damaged or lost teeth. They not only function like your natural teeth but will also preserve your smile and oral health.

Whether you have one or more missing or damaged teeth, a dental implant is a solution worth considering. Unlike dentures and bridges, implants offer a long-lasting solution, usually more than ten years. Once an implant is fixed, it’s done. You won’t have to remove it when sleeping or eating.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that is surgically fixed in the jaw bone to fill the missing tooth gap. Since they are fixed into the jawbone, they very stable and will prevent bone deterioration. The material used to make the implant is artificial and can’t decay, so you will not have to worry about developing cavities.

Taking care of implants is easy. You only have to follow your regular oral hygiene routine.

Who Qualifies for a Dental Implant?

While dental implants are widely recommended for replacing missing teeth, they can be used for many other dental issues. However, not everyone is eligible. Dental implants are right for you if:

1. You have one or more missing teeth.

While losing a tooth might not scare you, there are disadvantages to having an empty gap in your jawline. First off, you may lose your ability to speak fluently and chew properly. Your face may also start to sag, taking away from your beautiful smile and confidence.

Another disadvantage is that with time, the bone mass around the missing tooth begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. This eventually leads to bone loss, which may require bone grafting when you decide to replace the tooth.

Dental implants will not only restore the high performance and functionality of your natural teeth, but they will also restore your ability to chew and talk fluently. In addition, they will prevent further damage to your jawbone.

2. You are looking for a long-term dental solution.

Dental implants are fixed right into your jawbone, thereby assuming the roles of your natural teeth. If well cared for, implants can last for a lifetime.

In addition, once the implants heal, you won’t have many required dentist’s appointments for check-ups. However, it’s still recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a professional exam and cleaning.

3. You are looking for a convenient solution.

Compared to other dental procedures such as dentures, bonding, and bridges, dental implants offer the most convenient solution to missing teeth. Once fixed, you won’t have to remove them for cleaning or replace them every five years.

As they are permanently attached to your jawbone, they are very stable. You will not have to worry about your replacement teeth moving, shifting, or falling out of your mouth.

4. You have good oral hygiene.

While you may want to get an implant, you will only qualify for one if you are healthy enough for the procedure. Unfortunately, you may not qualify for a dental implant surgery if you have:

• Bleeding problems.
• A weak immune system.
• A long history of dental problems.
• Health issues that delay quick healing.
• Inadequate bone mass to support the implant.

For those with less than the required bone mass, your dentist may recommend bone grafting.

What are the Side Effects and Risks of Dental implants?

While dental implants are considered safe and usually very successful, like any other surgical procedure, they have risks. However, complications are minor and rare and can be easily treated.

Immediately after the procedure (once the anesthetic has worn out), you may experience a few discomforts such as:

• Swelling in the gums and face.
• Minor bleeding.
• Pain at the implant site.
• Soreness in the mouth.
• Bruising of the gums and skin.

Your dentist may prescribe painkillers and antibiotics to help with the healing.

Some risk factors include:

• Infection at the surgery area.
• Damage or injury to the surrounding structures, such as blood vessels or teeth.
• Nerve damage, which can cause pain or discomfort.
• Persistent symptoms.
• Sinus problems.

Please call your dentist immediately if you experience any persistent complications.

Schedule a Consultation

For safe and painless dental implant procedures, contact Concord Dental Associates to schedule an appointment.