If you've suffered tooth loss, chances are you’ve considered dental implants. You may even have done some research online to see if implants are actually worth it and how long they last.
The reality is that dental implants are more than simple replacements for missing teeth; they’re the closest thing to restoring your bite to its natural state. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants actually fuse with your jawbone, preventing bone loss and restoring full biting and chewing functionality.
In this guide, we’ll cover all there is to know about dental implants so that, when the time comes, you’re ready to make a confident, informed decision. Let’s dive in!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium pegs that are, well, implanted into the jawbone, where they act as artificial tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for permanent restorations. Since implants are biocompatible, they fuse naturally with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
Beyond providing stability for replacement teeth that traditional dentures or bridges simply can't match, this fusion provides stimulation that prevents the jawbone—and a person’s natural facial structure—from deteriorating.
A complete dental implant consists of three parts:
- Post — A screw-like post that’s surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Abutment — A connector that attaches to the implant post as well as an artificial tooth.
- Crown — A custom-made artificial tooth that connects to the abutment and restores natural feel and function.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent option for many individuals. Unfortunately, not every patient is a suitable candidate. The central factors that determine implant eligibility include:
- Overall health — Since implant placement is a minor surgical procedure, candidates should be in decent overall health, free from certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes that can hinder proper healing.
- Jawbone density — A strong, fully-formed jawbone is necessary to support a dental implant. In some cases of bone loss, a bone graft can bolster the jawbone and support the implant.
- Healthy gums — Gum disease (or periodontitis) can compromise implant success, so it’s essential to treat periodontal issues before implant placement.
- Good oral hygiene — Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are vital to keeping implants in good shape.
Types of Dental Implants
Not all dental implants are the same. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend one of a few options, typically:
- Endosteal — The most common of the implants, placed directly into the jaw and attached to a porcelain crown or a dental bridge.
- Subperiosteal — Implants that are placed above the jawbone but under the gum. Subperiosteal implants are recommended for patients lacking the bone density for traditional implants.
- All-on-X® implants — A procedure in which a full arch of teeth is secured in place using fewer (usually four or six) strategically placed implants.
- Mini dental implants — Smaller, less invasive implants that are used in cases of insufficient bone density.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implant placement doesn’t happen overnight. The full process takes several months and involves multiple steps. Here’s a breakdown:
- Initial Consultation — An evaluation of your oral health, involving x-rays, and a discussion with your dentist about whether implants are appropriate for you.
- Anesthesia — On the day of your implant placement, your dentist applies local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Implant Placement — Once you’re sufficiently numb, your dentist makes a tiny incision at the implantation site and inserts the implant post into the jawbone.
- Healing and Osseointegration — Over 3-6 months, the implant fuses permanently with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
- Abutment Placement — Once the implant has healed, an abutment is attached to act as a connector for the final restoration.
- Crown Placement — Finally, a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture is securely attached to the abutment, fully restoring your smile and bite!
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
One of the greatest advantages of dental implants is their durability. With proper care and placement, an implant post can last a lifetime, while the crown atop it will typically 10-15 years before requiring replacement due to normal wear.
To extend the life of your implants:
- Brush and floss thoroughly every day.
- Avoid chewing or biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, olive pits, or unpopped popcorn kernels.
- Attend regular checkups with your dentist.
- Minimize or quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco products.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
By address tooth loss at the root, dental implants offer a variety of great benefits that other tooth replacement options do not. Here are several key advantages that come with choosing dental implants for smile and bite restoration.
- Natural look and feel — Dental implants are customized to blend seamlessly into your smile for optimal aesthetics, feel, and function.
- Bite stability — Implants restore bite alignment for optimal biting and chewing stability.
- Confidence boost — Dental implants fill in gaps in your smile, boosting attractiveness and self-esteem.
- Restored function — Biting and chewing are more comfortable without large gaps between teeth.
- Excellent success rate — Implants enjoy a 95 percent success rate, making them an incredibly reliable treatment procedure.
- Bone protection — Implants provide stimulation to the jawbone like a natural tooth root, preventing deterioration that accompanies untreated tooth loss.
- Exceptional longevity — Implants have the potential to last multiple decades, or even a lifetime, with proper home care and consistent dental checkups.
Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?
While dental implants carry a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options, their long-term benefits outweigh this initial expense. Unlike dentures or bridges that need periodic adjustment or replacement, implants are a one-time investment that offers:
- Natural stability without slipping, shifting, or discomfort
- Preserved jawbone health and facial structure
- A natural feel
- Fully restored biting and chewing functionality
Seamless Smile Restoration With Dental Implants in West Chester, OH
If you’re looking for a dentist in West Chester to restore the aesthetics of your smile and the functionality of your bite with precisely placed dental implants, contact Dr. Brian J. Caesar and the friendly and helpful team here at Dentistry at University Point to schedule a consultation!