Even with rapid advancements in dental care, patients often suffer tooth loss for various reasons. The list includes cavities, injuries, gum disease, and infections. At times, despite treatment, it could be impossible to save an infected/injured tooth from extraction. If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, you need to discuss replacement options with a general dentist in Denton, TX, immediately. In this guide, we will talk about dental implants along with myths, facts, and more.
A quick review of dental implants
A dental implant is like a replacement root for a missing tooth. It is placed either over or inside the jawbone, and the procedure requires oral surgery. During the healing process, the implant will get secured in place and work as the base for your replacement tooth. Today, it is possible to replace an entire arch of missing teeth with just two implants on the extreme ends of the arch. The replacement teeth could be dentures, crowns, or bridges. Unlike dentures that can move around or slip inside the mouth, replacement teeth on dental implants are more comfortable and can restore full chewing and speech functions.
Myths at a glance
- Only older people get dental implants: That’s not the truth. Any adult who is missing a tooth and has enough bone density to hold the implant can benefit from treatment. Implants become a part of the mouth and don’t need replacement.
- Getting dental implants is painful: Again, this is not correct. As with most dental procedures, your dentist will use local anesthesia for the gums, and you will not feel anything. Yes, there might be some anxiety and discomfort, but there is no pain during the surgery.
- Dental implant surgery is complicated: This is not entirely accurate. Your dentist will recommend the option when they have done a complete examination and have ordered the required tests and X-rays. The surgery may take longer than a standard tooth extraction, but complications are rare.
Facts worth knowing
- Getting your replacement teeth will take time: Because dental implants are placed surgically inside the jawbone, it can take a few weeks or months for the replacement tooth roots to become a part of your mouth. You may have to wait for at least 12 to 16 weeks before you can get dentures or crowns.
- Dental implants are permanent: While restorative devices like crowns, dentures, and bridges have to be replaced after a decade or so, dental implants are permanent. Implants are made of titanium and last a lifetime. The success rate of the surgery is also significantly high.
- Not everyone is an ideal candidate: There are several factors that determine whether someone would qualify for dental implant surgery. Besides the health history, the patient must have enough jawbone density and healthy gums. In some cases, dentists may recommend going for the bone grafting procedure before implant surgery.
Other things to know
There are several advantages of dental implants. First and foremost, implants become a part of your mouth and help create a natural smile. After you get replacement teeth, you don’t have to deal with diet restrictions and can eat most of the foods you like. Most patients also agree that they have better speech after getting implants. Implants, being made of titanium, will never deteriorate either. Done by an expert dentist or dental surgeon, the outcomes are outstanding, reducing the need for future procedures.
Meet your dentist in Denton to discuss all aspects in detail before you decide to consider dental implants. They will also explain the risks and concerns, if any, and answer relevant questions about the procedure and recovery.
