Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement solution. Unlike other alternatives like dentures, they look and feel like your natural teeth. They also come with a variety of benefits that go beyond aesthetics.
Without an implant, the jaw bone in the empty space deteriorates due to lack of stimulation. A dental implant prevents this from happening, preserving the strength of your jaw and keeping neighbouring teeth in place.
They Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth
The crown that is placed over a dental implant closely resembles the shape and color of a natural tooth. This gives the impression of a full and healthy set of teeth to those that do not know the patient’s condition. It helps prevent social stigma that can result from missing teeth.
The implants themselves fuse to the jaw bone during the healing process, and they do not feel different than a real tooth. The only difference is that they do not have nerves, so they cannot feel pressure or temperature the way a natural tooth would.
If the implant site is located where a tooth was previously extracted, a bone graft may be necessary to achieve a solid base for the implant. This may involve using natural bone from another part of the body or a synthetic bone-substitute. Similarly, a sinus augmentation may be needed to raise the sinus floor so that an implant can be placed there.
They Help Maintain the Alignment of Adjacent Teeth
Dental implants Lillian AL fill the gap left by missing teeth and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the space. This helps to maintain the integrity of the bite and reduces stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
By mimicking the function of natural tooth roots, dental implants also stimulate the jawbone, stopping bone resorption and preserving facial structure. This prevents adjacent teeth from drifting out of alignment and requiring further treatment for their alignment.
While there are exceptions, most people who receive implant-supported teeth experience very few complications. Patients can enjoy a healthy smile with proper hygiene and routine visits.
During your dental implant procedure, we will use medication to numb the area so you won’t feel pain. However, you may experience some swelling and bruising for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help to manage these symptoms. Then, we will surgically place the titanium screw or blade into the bone. After 4-6 weeks, the surgeon will place an abutment onto the screw or blade. This will hold the crown, bridge or denture.
They Are More Cost-Effective Over Time
Dental implants are not cheap, but they cost less than other tooth replacement options over the long term. They are long-lasting, and they prevent damage to adjacent teeth and the jaw bone. They also reduce the likelihood of future problems that may require more expensive treatment.
Implants do not need special care products and do not shift in the mouth like dentures can, making them a cost-effective alternative for patients who want to eat their favorite foods again without worrying about slipping or embarrassing gaps in their smile. Those who choose to get an implant should work with a dentist who is committed to their health and well-being. The best dental implant experts will have extensive education and training in the areas of the mouth, jaw, and face and will take a holistic approach to each patient’s situation and needs. This includes coordinating care with other specialists such as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a periodontist who treats the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
They Are Long-Lasting
Dental implants fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This makes them a permanent replacement for missing teeth. Moreover, they don’t suffer from decay like natural teeth do, so they can last for the rest of your life.
Dental implant patients must maintain proper oral hygiene to ensure the success of the treatment. They should also avoid certain lifestyle choices that may cause complications. For example, smoking can interfere with blood flow to the mouth and impact osteointegration. Furthermore, it can lead to gum disease that may damage adjacent teeth and the facial structure.
For people who need dental implants Lillian AL to replace molars or premolars, they may need to undergo sinus lift or bone grafting surgery to get enough bone density to support the artificial tooth. Moreover, they should avoid chewing hard foods that could dislodge the implant and expose it to unnecessary stress.
