Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They offer many benefits over other methods of tooth replacement. In this blog post, Smiles in Currambine will discuss some of the key benefits of dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium screws placed in the jawbone to act as a replacement for missing teeth. They provide a secure and permanent foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns or dentures. Titanium implants can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all your teeth. With proper care, you can enjoy dental implant benefits for years.
What Happens During a Dental Implant Procedure?
The dental implant process is relatively straightforward and involves four steps. First, your dentist will make an incision along the gum line to create a pocket for the abutment. Then, the abutment is secured into place with screws and tightened with special tools.
Once the abutment is in place, an artificial tooth known as a crown will be made from a dental laboratory. The dentist uses impressions of the patient’s mouth to create a false tooth, usually a crown, and it is typically made of porcelain or ceramic.
The crown is then placed onto the abutment, which secures it in place. The dentist may choose to use dental cement or an adhesive that will help hold it in place permanently. The dentist will check for proper fit and adjust as needed.
The last step of the process is for the patient to have a follow-up appointment with their dentist or oral surgeon. The doctor will check that everything looks healthy and make sure there are no signs of infection. Once they are satisfied, the implant procedure is complete, and patients can enjoy their new dental implant benefits.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implant treatments offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges or dentures. Here are some of the key benefits of dental implants:
- Improved oral health: One major benefit of dental implants is better oral health. Dental implants can last for a long time, and they don’t need the periodic adjustments of other dental restorations. This means that once an implant is placed, it can help patients achieve strong and healthy teeth compared to removable dentures or bridges, which may need frequent adjustments. Tooth loss can lead to other dental issues, such as bite problems, bone loss, and jaw bone deterioration, and an implant can help prevent that by acting as a replacement tooth root.
- Improved comfort: Another advantage of dental implants is improved comfort and convenience. Removable dentures can cause discomfort when eating or speaking, as they may slip out of place. Dental implants, on the other hand, are implanted in the jawbone and provide a more secure fit that will not move around while talking or eating. Implants function like your normal tooth, so you won’t have to worry about the
- Improved appearance: Dental implants also offer improved aesthetics when compared to traditional dental restorations such as removable dentures or bridges. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots and look and feel like natural teeth, providing a more beautiful smile. This can give you a confidence boost and improve your overall quality of life.
- Improved durability: Another advantage of dental implants is durability over traditional restorations. Traditional dental restorations may need to be replaced every five to seven years due to wear and tear, but dental implants can last up to 25 years with proper care. This makes them a more cost-effective, long-term investment in your oral health.
What Are the Risks Associated With Dental Implants?
While there are several dental implant benefits you can enjoy, and the procedure is considered a safe and reliable solution to tooth loss, there are still some risks you need to be aware of. As with any surgical procedure, you can expect the following risks after dental implant surgery:
- Pain and discomfort: The first risk is that the patient may experience discomfort or pain after the implant is placed in their mouth. Patients may also experience infection or inflammation from the surgical site. Additionally, if the metal post is not placed correctly, it may cause damage to neighbouring teeth and tissues or cause nerve injury.
- Infection: Another risk of implants is infection. This can happen if bacteria from the oral cavity, such as plaque and tartar, enter the implant site. Infections can affect the healing period and cause other problems. If this happens, the patient may experience swelling and pain. In some cases, oral surgery may be necessary to remove the infected implant to avoid damaging the adjacent teeth.
- Nerve damage: There is also a risk of nerve damage with dental implants. This can occur if the implant is placed too close to a nerve or if there are issues with the depth of implantation, such as when a drill goes too deep into the jawbone. Nerve damage can cause numbness and tingling in the area around the implant, as well as pain or discomfort.
- Implant failure: Finally, the risk of rejection is possible with dental implants. This means that the implant may not be accepted by the body and could lead to complications such as infection or inflammation. Additionally, if the implant is rejected, additional surgery may be required to replace it with another one.
Do Dental Implants Have a High Success Rate?
Yes, dental implants have a high success rate. Studies show that over 95% of dental implants are successful and can last for a long time with proper oral hygiene.
Is It Worth It to Get a Dental Implant?
Dental implants can be a great investment if you’re willing to commit to the procedure. Not only do dental implants offer a long-term solution for missing teeth, but they also help maintain your natural smile and improve your oral health. Plus, with proper oral care, they can last for decades—making them an excellent return on investment.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering replacing a lost tooth, it may be worth exploring dental implants as an option. Not only do they provide a long-term solution for your smile, but they also offer improved oral health. While there are some risks, the advantages of dental implants greatly outweigh them. Wondering if you are a suitable candidate for implants? Schedule an initial consultation with the experienced team at Smiles in Currambine today. You can book an appointment online or by contacting our dental clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you first visit a dental professional to discuss the cost of dental implants, they’ll give you a full quote after evaluating your needs. On average, one implant can range between $5,000 and $7,000. However, the cost will vary depending on factors such as the type of material used or if additional procedures are needed to prepare your jawbone for the implant.
The main advantage of implant-retained dentures is that they fit more securely than traditional dentures. They are held in place with dental implants, which anchor them to the jawbone and prevent slipping or irritation. With implant-supported dentures, you also won’t have to worry about adhesive when eating, talking, or laughing. They also feel more natural and reduce bone resorption, which can occur with traditional dentures. If you are looking for a more lasting alternative to dentures, consider implant-retained dentures.
Yes! Dental implants are designed to function like your real teeth so that you can eat all your favourite foods with confidence. The titanium post fuses with the jawbone, providing a secure foundation for the crown. This sturdy foundation allows for normal biting and chewing forces which help protect long-term dental health. That said, we recommend switching to soft foods during the first few days after surgery to ensure that your implant heals properly.
While dental implants are a safe and effective dental procedure, they are not a permanent treatment option. The success of the implant often depends on proper aftercare and maintenance. Health conditions like gum disease and poor oral hygiene or improper fitting can also cause problems for the implant and delay the healing process.
Dr Saket Rai
Dr. Saket Rai is a passionate dentist with over 15 years of experience in general dentistry. He specializes in dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, laser dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and Digital Smile Design. With a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree and a Masters in Forensic Odontology, he stays updated with the latest dental technology and techniques. Dr. Rai has extensive training in dental implants and believes in continuous professional development to provide the highest standard of care. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys spending time with his two boys and has interests in reading, documentaries, and cricket.
