Embarking on the path to a restored smile involves informed decision-making. We’re delving here into dental implants, how they work, their biggest benefits, and how they stack up against other long-term tooth replacement solutions. By understanding the unique advantages of each option, you will be prepared to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
What Dental Implants Are and How They Work
Dental implants are a remarkable tooth replacement solution that uses small titanium pegs to mimic the form and function of natural teeth roots. The implant placement process involves surgically placing these titanium pegs into the vacated sockets in the jawbone. Over time, in a process called osseointegration, these posts fuse with the bone and create natural-feeling artificial tooth roots and sturdy foundations for dental restorations.
In many cases, once an implant is fully integrated, it is topped with a custom-crafted dental crown to restore the appearance, feel, and function of a natural tooth. Dental implants' look, feel, stability, and durability, combined with their central role in preserving bone density in the jaw, make them the premier choice for patients seeking long-term tooth restorations.
The Biggest Benefits of Dental Implants
Numerous benefits collectively make dental implants the preferred option for individuals needing long-term tooth replacement. The most significant of these benefits include:
- Natural appearance. Dental implants very closely replicate the function of natural teeth and facilitate a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile restoration.
- Enhanced functionality. Unlike bridges, dental implants restore full chewing function, allowing for a more varied diet.
- Preservation of adjacent teeth. As implants stand independently, they do not require the alteration of any surrounding healthy teeth.
- Bone health. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the loss of bone density that often accompanies tooth loss and helping to maintain a person’s facial structure.
- Improved speech. Since they are securely anchored, dental implants present no risk of slipping or speech impediments common with dentures.
- Longevity and durability. According to research, 95% of dental implants last for at least ten years with no need for re-treatment, and, with proper care, implants can last a lifetime!
Comparing Dental Implants as a Long-term Solution to Dentures and Dental Bridges
Dental implants are a modern and sophisticated solution for replacing missing teeth. But they’re hardly the only long-term tooth replacement option, with dentures and dental bridges popular choices for many. Understanding the characteristics of each option, including factors like longevity, stability, and impact on surrounding teeth, is crucial to understanding which is most suitable for you.
For those who’ve lost multiple teeth, dentures, either partial or full, are a more affordable option than multiple dental implants. While they do well to restore chewing function and facial structure, dentures do come with certain drawbacks, namely that they can slip and shift, hindering chewing and speech, and that they don’t offer the stimulation that prevents bone loss in the jaw.
Dental bridges, meanwhile, are anchored to adjacent teeth when they’re placed. A bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth. While bridges are non-removable and offer a natural appearance, they come with the disadvantage of requiring the alteration of healthy adjacent teeth. This alteration involves the removal of some tooth enamel, which can impact the long-term health of those teeth.
Dental implants, meanwhile, are surgically implanted into the jawbone, where they permanently integrate and serve as completely natural-looking and feeling roots. Because of this, implants offer exceptional stability and a secure foundation for dental prosthetics. And, of course, there’s their incredible longevity. Add it all up, and dental implants offer the most effective, durable, and long-term solution for tooth loss.
Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a transformative solution for tooth replacement. Unfortunately, not everyone is a suitable candidate. Thus, understanding the criteria for eligibility is crucial for those considering implants. Ideal candidates for dental implants generally possess healthy gums and fully-formed and sufficiently robust jawbone structure to support the implants.
It’s worth noting that certain factors may disqualify individuals from getting dental implants. These include uncontrolled medical conditions, particularly those that affect healing, like type-2 diabetes. Additionally, insufficient bone density in the jaw can limit the ability to support implants securely. However, advanced dental procedures like bone grafting can solve some with bone deficiencies.
Precision-Placed Dental Implants in Vallejo, CA
If you’re looking for a Vallejo dentist and dental practice with extensive experience and expertise in guiding patients through the entirety of the dental implant process, from consultation to placement to aftercare, contact dentist Dr. Morgan Nordstrom and the team at Morgan Nordstrom, DDS, William C. Vizzolini, DDS to schedule a consultation.