Modern dentistry has made available a new and effective solution for tooth replacement. Dental implants are a more permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional tooth replacement options, like dentures, allowing people to regain confidence and restore their oral health. This treatment is a safe and routine procedure with high success rates, making it a popular choice among patients and dentists.
What Are Dental Implants?
The truth about dental implants is that they serve as replacements for missing tooth roots and are typically small threaded posts that are either made of titanium or ceramic. These materials are known to be biocompatible, meaning they are well-suited for use in the mouth and are not harmful to the surrounding tissues.
Most dental implants are composed of titanium, a durable material that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting. Ceramic implants have a more aesthetic advantage as they can blend in better with natural teeth. Both materials are safe and can provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are durable, natural-looking, and offer many advantages over other alternatives. They can improve speech, restore function, prevent bone loss, and provide a permanent solution for missing teeth. Here are a few benefits that show how dental implants are a good option.
- Durability
The preferred method for replacing missing teeth is through the use of titanium dental implants, which have a success rate of over 97% for a period of 10 years. A large-scale study published in 2021 examined over 10,871 dental implants over a 22-year span, with the results showing high implant survival rates ranging from 94% to 98.9%, depending on the duration. In comparison, complete dentures have an average lifespan of 10.1 years, while dental bridges typically require replacement every 5 to 15 years. These findings highlight the long-term benefits of dental implants as a reliable and durable solution for missing teeth, proving that dental implants are worth it.
- Prevents Bone Loss
When a tooth is lost, the corresponding part of the jawbone no longer receives the same level of pressure, causing the body to break down and reabsorb some of the bone tissue, leading to bone loss. Dental implants are believed to potentially prevent this loss by slowing down bone resorption and preserving the alveolar ridge that contains the tooth socket. Studies have shown that tooth loss can lead to up to 30% of bone loss, and implants may help prevent further bone loss by preserving the jawbone’s structural integrity.
- Keeps Teeth Stable
Losing a tooth can lead to adjacent teeth shifting towards the gap, potentially resulting in issues with biting and chewing. Dental implants can replace the missing tooth, effectively filling the space and preventing the surrounding teeth from drifting. By keeping the adjacent teeth in their proper positions, implants can help maintain the overall health of the mouth and prevent any related dental problems that might occur due to shifting teeth. These benefits highlight the role of dental implants in restoring proper dental function and preserving oral health.
- Enhances Appearance
Losing a tooth or multiple teeth can cause jawbone loss, which may lead to facial changes such as sagging skin, collapsed cheeks, sunken appearance, and bite misalignment. Dental implants can potentially prevent these changes by preserving the structural integrity of the jaw and preventing further bone loss.
- Improves Speaking and Chewing
Dental implants can help maintain speech patterns by filling gaps in teeth that can cause changes in the airflow during speech. Dental implants can closely replicate the natural function of teeth, which can lead to improved speech and oral function.
- Improves Quality of Life
A study carried out in 2019 showed that among 98 individuals who were given implant-supported overdentures, there were no cases of implant failure during a 3-year follow-up evaluation. The researchers concluded that the use of implant-supported overdentures could improve quality of life with minimal risks and a high rate of implant retention.
Candidates for Dental Implants
If you have lost one or more teeth and wish to replace them, your dentist may suggest undergoing a dental implant procedure, but this is not suitable for everyone. Here’s how to determine if you’re a good candidate for the treatment.
- Healthy Gums
Healthy gums are essential for dental implants, as specialists need to work closely with them during the procedure. Individuals with gum infections such as gingivitis or periodontal disease may not be suitable candidates.
- Sufficient Bone Density
Sufficient bone density is necessary to safeguard and support the implant. A robust jaw is vital for anchoring the implant. If a person has experienced bone loss in their jaw, they can still get dental implants but will need additional procedures to reconstruct their bone.
- Good Oral Health
An ideal candidate should not have any infections or dental issues that might disrupt the surgical process. Additionally, they should be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, particularly to the gums surrounding the implant. This includes daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist to ensure that the implants and the overall mouth remain healthy.
- Minimal Bruxism
Individuals who suffer from teeth grinding and clenching may exert excessive pressure on the implants, which can lead to failure. If you have this problem, inquire about our personalized nightguards that are designed to protect your smile.
- No Tobacco Use
People who use tobacco products are not suitable candidates for this treatment since smoking and other tobacco products can impede healing in the mouth, decreasing the chances of a successful implant. We strongly suggest quitting smoking to maintain good oral health and avoid any tooth implant side effects.
The most effective way to determine whether dental implants are an appropriate treatment for you is to consult with a dental care provider. As part of the treatment planning process, discussing your needs and concerns with a general dentist or prosthodontist is advisable. Kingsway Family Dentistry offers high-quality dental services from highly skilled Beamsville dentists. Call and book an appointment now at (905) 563-4001.