Are you suffering from missing, damaged, or rotting teeth?
Severe teeth problems can become a dental nightmare.
Not only do they cause pain and embarrassment, but they can also lead to other problems like gum disease. If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental implants could be your solution.
Dental implants are artificial teeth placed in your jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They’re strong, durable, and look and feel just like natural teeth.
In this guide, we will discuss how dental implants work, procedures, costs, and the benefits of this dental procedure.
Keep reading to learn how dental implants can help you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in your jawbone. They function as substitute tooth roots in order to support artificial teeth.
The goal of dental implants is to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are placed in your jawbone during a surgical procedure. Once the implant is in place, your dentist will attach a small metal post to the implant.
Once the metal post is attached, your dentist will create a mould of your teeth. This mould will help to create custom-made replacement teeth.
Once the replacement teeth are ready, they will be attached to the metal post. You will then have a new, strong, and durable tooth that looks and feels just like your natural teeth!
The Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many benefits of dental implants. These include the following.
Improved Appearance
Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth. They will give you a natural-looking smile that you can be proud of!
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants do not require reducing other teeth, as is necessary with a bridge. Your existing healthy tooth structure will stay preserved.
Convenience
Dental implants are permanent. This distinguishes them from dentures, which need removal and daily cleanings.
Improved Speech
Dental implants allow you to speak without worrying that your teeth will slip or move. This is thanks to their secure design.
Self-Esteem
Dental implants can give you the confidence you need to smile, laugh, and enjoy your life. No more missing teeth to drag you down!
Quality of Life
Dental implants can improve your quality of life. They make it easier to eat the foods you love and give you the confidence to smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants vs Other Treatments
Dental implants also offer additional benefits over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges.
Dentures are not permanently attached to your mouth and can slip or move, which can be embarrassing and frustrating. Bridges require the reduction of healthy teeth in order for them to work properly, which can damage your healthy teeth.
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that preserves your natural tooth structure.
Dental Implant Methods
There are two types of dental implant methods. These are as follows.
Endosteal Implants
These are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed in the jawbone and are made of metal, ceramic, or composite material.
Subperiosteal Implants
Dentists place these implants on the jawbone. They consist of a metal framework with posts that protrude through the gums.
The type of dental implant that is right for you will be determined by your dentist based on your unique needs and situation.
Potential Risks of Dental Implants
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with dental implants. These risks can include:
- Infection at the implant site
- Injury to surrounding teeth
- Nerve damage
- Sinus problems
- Allergic reactions to the implant material
It is important to discuss these risks with your dentist before you decide to have dental implants placed.
Dental Implant Procedure
If you’re in good condition and your dentist thinks you’re a suitable candidate for implants, they will schedule the procedure to be performed at the practice under local anaesthesia.
First, the area around the implant site is numbed with local anaesthesia.
Next, your dentist will make a small incision in your gum and place the implant in your jawbone. From there, it depends on the procedure you need.
Single Tooth Replacement
If you are having a single tooth replaced, your dentist will place a metal post in the implant. They will then attach a custom-made replacement tooth to the post.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
If you are having multiple teeth replaced, your dentist will place a metal bridge in the implants. They will then attach custom-made replacement teeth to the bridge.
Full Mouth Replacement
If you are having all of your teeth replaced, your dentist will place a full denture or partial denture on the implants. The denture is affixed to the implants to is permanent, rather than removable.
After the Procedure
After the dental implant surgery is complete, you will need to take it easy for a few days and eat soft foods.
The healing process can take several months, during which time your jawbone will grow around the implant and fuse to it.
Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any discomfort you may feel. It’s also important to keep the area around your implant clean by brushing and flossing regularly.
Finally, you will need to see your dentist for regular examinations and cleanings.
How to Know If Dental Implants Are Right for You
Dental implants are not always right for everyone. The best way to find out if dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with your local dentist.
During your consultation, your dentist will take X-rays and perform a physical examination of your mouth to evaluate your gum and bone health. This step confirms that you have enough bone to support the dental implants.
Your dentist will also discuss your medical history with you and ask about any medications you are currently taking. This is important because certain medical conditions and medications can affect your ability to heal from surgery.
They will also ask about your medical history and discuss your goals for treatment. If you are a smoker, your dentist may advise you to quit smoking before your implant surgery (smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications).
You’ll need to stay committed to your oral and physical health. Based on this information, they’ll be able to determine if dental implants are the right solution for you.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
The short answer is no—dental implants should not be painful.
In fact, most patients report that they feel little pain during and after the dental implant procedure.
Of course, everyone experiences pain differently, so it’s important to discuss your concerns with your dentist before the procedure.
They will work with you to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible during and after your surgery.
The Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the complexity of the procedure.
A dental implant procedure typically ranges from £2,800 to £20,000.
Unfortunately, insurance companies typically don’t cover the cost of dental implants. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of implant-supported dentures or bridges.
If you are considering dental implants, be sure to discuss the cost with your dentist to plan for your treatment and budget.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Quality dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.
However, the lifespan of your dental implants will depend on many factors, such as:
- The type of implant
- The health of your jawbone
- Your oral hygiene habits
- The quality of your dental care
Brushing and flossing regularly will also help to keep your implants healthy.
Required Care for Dental Implants
Dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth. You need to be sure to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from around the implant.
It is also important to see your dentist for regular examinations and cleanings. During these appointments, your dentist will check the health of your implant and make sure that it is still securely in place.
If you have any concerns about the care of your dental implants, be sure to discuss them with your local dentist.
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Hear what some of our dental implant patients have had to say about the treatment:
If you’re looking for quality dental implants that will last a lifetime, Bath Spa Dentistry is the perfect place for you.
Our experienced dentists are experts in dental implants and will work with you to ensure that you are comfortable and satisfied with your results.
We offer a wide range of dental implant options to meet your needs and budget, so you can get that beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.
Don’t wait any longer, book an appointment with Bath Spa Dentistry today!