If you are missing teeth, you’ve probably talked with a dentist about your options to replace them. From bridges to dentures to implants, you have multiple options available. But if you’re looking for the longest-lasting, most natural solution to replace a missing tooth, give dental implants a try. There’s a reason half a million people each year choose this option when replacing their teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal posts, usually made of titanium or zirconia oxide, that are surgically embedded into the jawbone where a patient is missing a tooth. Once the post has fully integrated into the jaw bone tissue, a tooth-shaped crown is anchored over the post.
Lifespan of Dental Implants
There are two factors to consider when determining the longevity of dental implants - the post and the crown. The post will stay embedded in the jaw permanently, but the crown will wear down over time and must be periodically replaced. Most crowns last an average of 10-15 years with proper home and in-office dental care. However, if you do not practice proper dental care, the lifespan of the dental implant crown may be much shorter.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Dental Implants
It’s important to take care of your dental implant and crown to get the longest use possible. Improper or negligent care can take years off of the lifespan of the crown, and there are some issues that can even affect the longevity of the post. Factors that affect the lifespan of your dental implants include:
- Daily Oral Care - Not caring properly for your teeth at home can lead to significant reduction in the lifespan of the dental implant crown. If decay and infection get under the crown, it can also cause the post to fail.
- Sugary or Acidic Foods - It’s always a good idea to avoid sugary and acidic foods, such as sodas. These foods can wear away the crown material over time, especially if they are not brushed off of the teeth promptly.
- Low Bone Mass - If there isn’t enough bone mass in the jaw when the implant post is placed, the post can fail and come loose from the jawbone.
- Smoking - Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of dental implant failure.
- Grinding Teeth (Bruxism) - Grinding the teeth is a common problem, especially during sleep. This behavior can quickly wear down or even break the implant crown.
- Certain Medical Conditions - Some medical conditions can increase the risk of dental implant failure, including diabetes, osteoporosis, weakened immune system, certain bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and congestive heart failure.
- Certain Medications - Certain medications increase the risk of dental implant failure, including immunosuppressive drugs, blood-thinning medications, and radiation therapy.
- Dental Appointments - It’s crucial to get routine dental care from a qualified dentist, including an examination and cleaning twice each year.
Long-Term Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants are without a doubt one of the longest-lasting ways to replace a missing tooth. Modern dental implants are very natural looking and matched to the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. They require less care and maintenance than some of the other tooth replacement options and once the implant post is placed, it will last a lifetime with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Are dental implants permanent?
While the implant post will likely never need to be replaced, the crown which is placed over the post will require replacement every 10-15 years on average.
What are dental implants made of?
The posts used in dental implants are usually made of titanium or zirconia oxide, but some posts can be made of gold alloy, titanium alloys, cobalt-based alloys, or ceramic materials. The crown that goes over the implant post is typically made of composite resin, metal, or even porcelain.
Dental Implants in Stockbridge, GA
Are you looking for a great, long-term solution to replace your missing teeth? If you’re in the Stockbridge, GA area, and need high-quality dental care, trust the expert team at Advanced Dentistry of Stockbridge. We offer a full range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry procedures, along with aesthetic and emergency services. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling 770-389-0389 or booking your appointment online.
Dental implants are often the best solution for replacing missing teeth in terms of appearance, longevity, and value over time. Dental implants offer a permanent alternative to crowns, bridges, and other older restorative dentistry techniques, and as such, dental implants have become quite popular. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) estimates that about half a million people get dental implants in the U.S. each year, and that number is growing with each year that passes. However, there are still many myths out there about dental implants, stopping some patients from even considering this revolutionary procedure.
Myth: Dental Implants are Temporary
Fact: The titanium post implanted into the jawbone when receiving a dental implant is permanent and will be there for your lifetime. The composite tooth structure sitting on top of the titanium post will wear down and need to be replaced in 10-15 years, assuming proper dental hygiene and routine dentist visits are done.
Myth: Dental Implants Look Fake
Fact: Long gone are the big, bulky, and unnatural looking dental implants of the past. Dental implants today are identical to the patient’s natural teeth in shape, size, and even color. This is due to advances in dental technology such as advanced diagnostics and 3D scanning.
Myth: Dental Implants Can Be Done Correctly in One Visit
Fact: Dental implants can take weeks, months, or even years from start to finish, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Just the process of ossification, or the integration of the titanium post into the jawbone, can take months on its own and is essential for proper implant longevity. While there are dentists out there that offer same-day implants, this is not the safest or most effective way to do the procedure and we do not recommend it.
Myth: Dental Implants are Painful
Fact: Advances in dental anesthesia and techniques have made dental implants a much more comfortable procedure. Many patients report that it is similar to having a cavity filled or a tooth extracted. Modern dentists use a combination of anesthetics and sedating medications to make the procedure as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Myth: Dental Implants Aren’t an Option for Multiple Missing Teeth
Fact: Whether you’re missing one or all your teeth, dental implants can still be a great option. Along with single dental implants, dentists can now provide implant-supported bridges and even full-mouth dentures supported by implants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
What type of sedation is used for dental implants?
Every patient is different, so there’s not a one-size-fits-all sedation technique when receiving dental implants. Some patients will do well with just a numbing cream and local anesthetic, while others may require general anesthesia. Conscious sedation using nitrous oxide is another popular sedation choice. Your dentist will work with you to decide which sedation option, or combination, is right for you.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
If you do not have cavities, tooth decay, or gum disease, have sufficient bone structure and jaw height to support an implant, and do not smoke, then dental implants may be a good choice for you.
Dental Implant Services in Stockbridge, GA
Dental implants are a fantastic choice for patients who want a permanent tooth replacement option with minimal upkeep requirements. By simply practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly, a dental implant can last a lifetime. If you’re interested in dental implants, Advanced Dentistry of Stockbridge is here to help. To schedule a dental implant consultation, give us a call at 770-389-0389 or book an appointment online today.
Have you ever wondered if you could regain the natural look and feel of your teeth? If the idea of using dentures for the rest of your life doesn't sit well with you, there's good news. Dental implants offer a cosmetic and practical solution that closely mimics your natural teeth. Many people choose this innovative option to improve their smile and gain more confidence without the hassle of dentures. If you are considering such a procedure, here's what you need to know about how dental implants work.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Depending on your specific dental conditions and the type of dental implant chosen, your dental provider will identify a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
When an experienced dentist or oral surgeon places dental implants, it's considered a safe procedure with minimal risk of complications. Make sure you discuss any concerns with your doctor before opting for this type of treatment.
Dental implant placement is typically performed in conjunction with local anesthetic or sedation, so most people don't experience pain during or after the procedure. However, some dental implant patients will experience discomfort while the area heals in the weeks following placement.
Placing a dental implant generally involves several steps and visits to your provider. First, your dentist will surgically embed a titanium post directly into your jawbone. During the healing process, the implant will fuse with the natural jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for your replacement teeth.
Next, after several weeks or months of healing, a small connector called an abutment is affixed atop your dental implant to connect it with the replacement teeth. The final phase entails attaching your custom-made crowns to the abutment, resulting in teeth that not only look but also function just like your original teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are common options for individuals who have lost one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason and who don't want to wear dentures.
When it comes to restoring missing teeth, dental implants offer unparalleled longevity and a natural feel. You'll experience teeth that closely mimic the real deal; they'll be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. You simply need to continue with regular dental hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and routine checkups and cleanings.
Types of Available Implants
Various types of dental implants exist. The most widely used are endosteal implants, which resemble small screws made of titanium that are inserted into your jawbone. Subperiosteal implants, on the other hand, are positioned beneath your gum, either on or above your jawbone. These implants are particularly suitable for individuals with shallow jawbones who wish to bypass bone reconstruction procedures.
Learn More About Dental Implants from Advanced Dentistry of Stockbridge
At Advanced Dentistry of Stockbridge, we can help you determine if dental implants are the right option for you and explain the procedure every step of the way. Even if dental implants aren't the right option for you, we offer many different options for cosmetic dentistry treatment. Call 770-389-0389 or contact us today to schedule a dental implant consultation or to learn more.