At Vista Ridge Family Dentistry, we understand how important it is to make the right choice to restore your smile. Dental implants could be the perfect solution to help you regain your confidence and enjoy a healthy, functional smile if you have missing or severely damaged teeth. But are dental implants the right option for you?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They are small titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once the implants are securely in place, custom crowns, bridges, or dentures attach to complete the restoration. Dental implants offer a more permanent and natural-looking solution than other methods, such as dentures or bridges, making them an excellent choice for many patients.
Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants are fixed in place, meaning they don’t slip or move while you eat or speak. They also help preserve the integrity of your jawbone by stimulating bone growth, which can prevent bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing.
Is There Enough Bone for Implants?
One of the primary factors determining whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants is the condition of your jawbone. Dental implants require a healthy amount of bone to anchor the implant securely. If you have experienced significant bone loss due to missing teeth or gum disease, your jawbone may not be strong enough to support the implants.
However, if bone loss is a concern, procedures are available to help. One option is bone grafting, which involves adding bone material to the jaw to build up the area and make it suitable for implant placement. Your dentist at Vista Ridge Family Dentistry will evaluate your jawbone health and determine if bone grafting is necessary or if other solutions, like mini implants, would be a better option.
Are You in Good Overall Health?
While dental implants are a safe and effective procedure, good overall health is important to ensure a successful outcome. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease, may not be ideal candidates for dental implants without addressing those issues first.
Your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, including checking for gum disease, cavities, or other conditions that could impact the success of the implants. If you have any existing health concerns, it’s essential to discuss them with your dentist so they can determine the best treatment plan for you.
What Is the Implant Process Like?
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps and can take a few months to complete. First, your dentist will place the titanium implant into your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. After placing the implant, it needs time to fuse with the bone in osseointegration. This can take several months, but ensuring the implant is secure before the next step is essential.
Once the implant fully integrates with your jawbone, your dentist will attach a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to complete the restoration. The result is a fully functional tooth replacement that looks and feels natural.