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Our teeth altogether form a unified structure. The loss or weakening of even one tooth can result in a deterioration of the entire dental structure. 

However, thanks to dental implants, we can avoid this. In fact, implants are the perfect alternative to dentures. As long as a person has healthy gums and adequate bone support, implants are an option. 

People often wonder if they are too young or old to get dental implants. But, innovations have made it possible for everyone to get them. Let’s dive in to get to know them better.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are made of titanium. They come in different sizes and fit into the jaw bone in the mouth. They function similarly to ordinary teeth roots. Furthermore, not only do implants give you back a tooth so you can chew, their presence in the jaw bone helps to prevent jaw bone loss/deterioration. 

As mentioned, dental implants connect to your jawbone, providing a secure foundation for prosthetic teeth, such as single crowns, or multi-crown “bridges.”

Types of Dental Implants

There are three primary types of dental implants: Endosteal, Sub-periosteal, and Zygomatic implants. 

1. Endosteal Implants

These are the most commonly used implants today. They are surgically inserted into the jawbone. After the surrounding gum tissues have healed, the dentist will perform a second surgical procedure to attach a post to the original implant. Finally, a prosthetic tooth or “crown” is connected to the post, either individually or in groups on as a multi-crown “bridge.” Sometimes a whole denture is connected to the dentures. 

1. Sub-Periosteal Implants

These implants consist of a metal frame attached to the jawbone underneath the gum tissue. The steel frame attaches itself to the jawbone as the gums recover. The frame’s posts protrude through the gums. The prosthetic teeth are then attached to the posts like endosteal implants are. Nowadays these types of implants are not commonly used. Endosteal implants have all but replaced them.

1. Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants can be done to avoid an invasive procedure. It is the most complex implant procedure and should only be performed if the jawbone cannot accommodate an endosteal implant. In the case of a zygomatic implant, the implant is inserted in the patient’s cheekbone instead of the jawbone. Again, they are used when there is not enough jaw bone present for the commonly used endosteal implant. Often times two will be placed, one in each cheek bone, and an upper full denture will be made to connect to these implants.  It’s important to note that these days Zygomatic implants are growing in popularity amongst those who do not have enough healthy jaw bone.

Who Should Opt for Dental Implants?

The technology surrounding dental implants has improved dramatically in recent years. Therefore, dental implants are soon becoming the industry standard for addressing dental issues caused by tooth loss. However, there are a few requirements on the part of the patient:

• Strong, healthy gums 
• healthy jaw bone
• no underlying periodontal disease
• no untreated tooth decay 

Anyone who has the above can be a candidate for dental implants. Moreover, they are a long-lasting permanent solution, unlike conventional dentures that don’t always fit well, which then causes chronic irritation due to the friction of the denture on the gums. 

Reasons to Choose Dental Implants

• Natural appearance: As mentioned above, conventional dentures can be an option, but implants are far better due to their esthetics. 
• Strong and sturdy: They are firmly integrated into the jawbone and do not require the patient having to take them in and out of the mouth, like dentures.
• Protects against bone loss: Dental implants encourage alveolar jaw bone growth in the same manner as natural teeth do. This can safeguard your face’s underlying structure skeletal structure and prevent premature aging.
• Long lasting: Implant surgery can provide you with a long-term solution. If you take good care of your implants, they could last a lifetime.
• Relatively affordable: Dental implants are a significant one-time expense. However, they are more cost-effective in the long run since they are long term.
• Low-maintenance: You need to care for your implants the same way you do for your natural teeth (this includes good at home hygiene, as well as regular dental checkups). Other than that, they do not require any additional special maintenance.
• Short recovery time: Implant surgery is relatively safe and can be performed extremely quickly. In fact, you can walk out of the dentist’s office immediately after the procedure, followed by a very short recovery period.

Conclusion

Dental implants are among the best alternatives for replacing missing teeth and improving your appearance. They can help you avoid dentures, enhance the radiance of your smile, and your overall oral health. 

In addition to these advantages, they are also durable and can last a lifetime. You may now have many questions about dental implants. But fortunately we have the answers. So, if you are considering implants, consult with Pure Dental Arts today.

References:

https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/implants/

https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/implants/what-are-dental-implants

https://www.smilespauk.com/different-types-dental-implants/#:~:text=There%20are%20three%20common%20types,It%20is%20rarely%20used.

https://www.implantdentistirvine.com/blog/when-are-dental-implants-necessary#:~:text=Dental%20implants%20are%20necessary%20when,problem%20as%20time%20goes%20on.

https://sforalsurgery.com/reasons-to-consider-dental-implants/