When to Consider Dental Implants
Why an Oral Cancer Screening is Vital to Your Health
December 8, 2017
Honest John’s Story
December 18, 2017When to Consider Placing a Dental Implant
If you have missing or damaged teeth, you could be missing out on much more. Missing or damaged teeth can result in embarrassment and difficulty eating your favorite foods. They may also have an adverse effect on your jaw structure or current alignment of your teeth. Simply put, unhealthy teeth cannot be ignored. What should you do if you have missing or damaged teeth? You may want to consider dental implants.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is used to replace a tooth or a set of teeth. It consists of three pieces, the implant itself, which is placed in the gums and jawbone; the abutment, which is used to attach the implant to the crown, the artificial tooth. They are recommended when a patient already has a missing tooth or set of teeth, or when a tooth will require an extraction. Once the tooth in question is gone, the implant can be placed.
How Long Does It Take?
Getting an implant is a process that is unique to each situation, so an exact timeline of placement can vary. There are several fundamental steps that are nearly always seen with every case. Every case involves a consultation with your dentist to go over your treatment options and get the process started. Once evaluated by your dentist or specialist, a better idea of a timeline can be established for that case.
Who Can Get a Dental Implant?
Many people qualify to get implants, but again, no case is the same. Some key areas your dentist may consider are jaw bone size, gum health and the size of your mouth. Furthermore, your dentist or specialist may need to evaluate pre-existing blood conditions, or if you are currently undergoing radiation therapy to the head or neck area. Results of these evaluations may lengthen the total treatment process or make implants not a viable option. When you speak to your dentist or specialist about implants, they should be able to evaluate your candidacy in greater detail and give you options to help you through the implant process.
Why Would I Want a Dental Implant?
Dental implants can help improve your dental health and overall well-being in a number of ways. It stimulates the jawbone when you chew, like the roots of natural teeth which helps preserve the overall structure and shape of your jaw. An implant is strong, comfortable, and secure and acts just like a natural tooth. Implants also cannot get cavities. Furthermore, implants are versatile, and can be used to replace virtually any tooth or set of teeth. Whether you had a tooth come out by accident, or have had several extractions, implants are a long-term solution to keeping your dental health at its best.