Dental Implant Overview
by Harold Coleman
If you need to replace missing teeth, then you have several options to choose from. To help you make a more informed decision, here is an overview of one of those options: implants.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is basically a synthetic tooth that is made of three parts. The first part is the actual implant, which is shaped sort of like a screw. This device is drilled into your jawbone and occupies the same space as the roots of your missing tooth. The implant is practically invisible and you will likely never notice it as long as the installation goes smoothly. Atop the implant is something called an abutment, which is used to anchor the implant to the crown. The crown is the actual synthetic tooth that you will see and feel after the process is complete. Crowns are also commonly used in root canals and to replace large sections of damaged teeth.
How long do implants last?
Implants tend to last a lot longer than similar options. There is a very good chance that an implant will last your entire lifetime as long as it is installed correctly. On that note, if you have some discomfort with your implant, it is critical that you consult your dentist as soon as possible. While mild discomfort is common after the installation of implants, long-term discomfort could indicate a structural problem. This could ultimately translate into jawbone or gum damage and could even compromise the surrounding healthy teeth.
How comfortable are implants?
One of the biggest benefits of implants is that they feel incredibly natural. While you may need to remove dentures frequently, implants are there to stay. An implant is no more noticeable than a normal tooth and isn't vulnerable to the same problems that other teeth are. Since an implant is entirely synthetic and has no nerves, you can't get a toothache from an implant. That being said, you can still get discomfort and infections in the surrounding gum tissue and other teeth, so you shouldn't neglect brushing and flossing your teeth after you get an implant.
What are the downsides of implants?
The high cost is the biggest drawback when it comes to implants. An implant will likely cost a lot more per tooth than any other option. While bridges and dentures can cover multiple teeth at once, thereby reducing costs, implants must be installed separately for every missing tooth. On top of that, your insurance likely will not cover implant installation. In the end, it may be a reasonable proposition to get implants if you are missing one or two teeth, but replacing an entire mouth of teeth with implants is far too expensive for most people.
Another big problem with implants is that they take a long time to install. You will require several visits to complete the installation and may be in some discomfort until the entire process is completed.
To learn more about dental implants, contact a dentistry clinic like Sunshine Dentistry.
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About Me
I have never liked my teeth. I had a lot of dental problems, including deep staining and oddly shaped teeth. Every tooth did not have the same shape, and some were rounded while others were more square. Not surprisingly, I never smiled in pictures and not even much in real life. This left people thinking I was mean before they even met me. My dentist told me my best bet to improve the look of my smile was a set of porcelain dental veneers. He said they could make all my teeth white and the same shape. I said I wanted them without any hesitation, and we scheduled my procedures. I love my new teeth, and they really did change my life. I created this blog to help other people living with teeth they don't like realize that they do have options that can improve their smiles and their lives.