In the past, dentures or bridges were the only options available to people with missing teeth. Now, improvements in dental care have made new options such as dental implants and the All-on-4 procedure available to a growing percentage of the millions who suffer from tooth loss.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are designed to replace tooth roots. A titanium metal post is surgically implanted into your jaw bone, similar to the way your tooth roots work. Once the posts are firmly in place, a dental crown is attached to them. The implants provide a strong base for the crown and can last for many years or even a lifetime if cared for properly. Whether you’re having single dental implants placed or are having the All-on-4 dental procedure, the titanium posts will be inserted.
Advantages of Dental Implants
The strength and durability of dental implants provide many advantages, including:
Natural appearance. The dental crowns placed onto the implants or the All-on-4 are designed to look exactly like your real teeth. A mold is taken from your teeth and mouth, and the crowns are designed from these. The color of the crown is even matched to your real teeth to help it blend in.
Improved comfort. Removable dentures can shift while in your mouth. This poses a problem while speaking or chewing. Dentures can also slip out of your mouth if not secured properly. Because dental implants and the All-on-4 are fused to your jawbone, they are essentially part of you. They will function exactly like your normal teeth, eliminating the need to secure or remove them and alleviating the worry of slippage.
Improved dental health. Because dental implants and the All-on-4 do not require your existing teeth to be altered or reduced, more of your natural teeth are left in place, which will improve your long-term dental health. Implants also allow for easier access to your teeth, improving the dental care you receive.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
If you’re healthy enough to receive oral surgery, you can receive dental implants or the All-on-4 dental procedure. Both require you to have healthy gums and a healthy, strong bone structure to help support the titanium posts. It’s also imperative that you commit to proper oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist. Doing so will ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.
If you smoke or suffer from heart disease or diabetes, you’ll need to consult with your dentist about the possibility of getting dental implants.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that is accepted by the human body. Your bone can safely grow around the titanium and lock it into place. This process is called osseointegration and creates an extremely strong foundation for the dental implants and All-on-4 dental crowns. Because of the titanium and bone compatibility, implant surgery is one of the safest dental procedures when performed by an experienced dentist.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
Patients who have received successful implants report very little pain and discomfort after the procedure. During the procedure, local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort. You can expect to experience mild soreness after the procedure. This can be treated by over-the-counter pain medication.
What Is the Cost of Dental Implants?
The type of dental implants you choose affects the cost. Naturally, the more implants you receive, the higher the cost. The All-on-4 is the most elaborate procedure and will involve a larger financial commitment. However, the cost of dental implants should be weighed against their advantages. Implants will last longer, possibly a lifetime, and will help to improve your dental health. Compare this to dentures, which need to be replaced every three to six years and are damaged easily. Speak with your dentist and insurance provider about what your final cost of dental implants will be.
If you’re interested in receiving more information on dental implants, the All-on-4 dental procedure, or the teeth in a day dental procedure schedule a consultation with Chandler Implants and Periodontics today.
