There can be many treatments we undergo when it comes to our teeth and one thing you may have to consider is a dental implant. But what is it? A dental implant is a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Your dentist places them directly into your jawbone, where they create and become an artificial replacement for the root of your missing tooth, or in some cases, teeth. Having missing teeth can affect your confidence as well as your ability to speak and to eat. Dental implants can offer a long-lasting and discreet alternative to having to live with missing teeth.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed directly into the jawbone, which replaces the missing tooth root. After it is fitted, the bone surrounding your implant will gradually fuse to it, holding the implant in place. A false tooth, such as a crown or denture, is then fitted on top of the implant, creating a natural-looking smile.
It can be just one dental implant, or multiple ones depending on your situation. It is also possible to have several implants fitted in the same procedure. For more information about this, you can speak to your dentist to discuss the procedure in more detail.
Benefits of implants
There is no denying that having missing teeth or gaps in your smile can knock your confidence. With an implant, it can hopefully help you to build that back up enabling you to feel comfortable with your smile once more. As well, improving your ability to eat and to speak.
We know people feel self-conscious if they have missing teeth. With an implant, hopefully, you can get your confidence back – whether it’s in your smile, how you eat or when you talk. So what are the major benefits of having a dental implant fitted? Here are a few to think about:
- A permanent option – the last thing people want when it comes to having dental treatments is something that will need to be replaced or redone after a period of time. A dental implant can give you the assurance of a long-lasting procedure that will deliver results. The dentures added to the implant can have a life of around 10 years, but the implant itself can last as long as your natural teeth.
- Less damage to your existing teeth – some other options for replacing missing teeth can cause unnecessary damage to your existing teeth by cutting or having to have more out to compensate for the replacements. Dental implants can be less damaging all around.
Of course, the only downside that people consider when it comes to dental implants is that it can be a complicated procedure and it can take time for the implant to fuse with your jawbone. You can discuss the options in more depth with your dentist.
How will my dental implant be fitted?
When it comes to the procedure you may find that you need to have two separate appointments. The first procedure is likely to fit the dental implant itself to the jaw bone. The second procedure will likely be a few months later to fit the new tooth onto the implant. You will likely have the procedure done at your dentist’s surgery and you will need to be under local anesthesia. If you feel anxious about the procedure it is important to tell your dentist. They might be able to offer you reassurance or something to help you relax.
Who is the best candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are suitable for most adults who find themselves in general good health and also have healthy gums. They aren’t necessarily suitable for children and young adults under the age of 18 because the underlying bones are still growing.
In order to be a good candidate for a dental implant, the patient will need to have healthy gums and a jawbone that is capable of supporting the new root. However, in many cases, it’s possible to carry out a bone graft to strengthen the jawbone before dental implants are inserted. The ideal candidate will be:
- In good oral health
- Have a strong jawline that can support the treatment
- Healthy gum tissues
- Fully aware of the procedure itself
Your dentist may not recommend dental implants if you:
- Are a smoker
- Have had radiotherapy to your jaw area
- Have diabetes which isn’t well-controlled
- Suffer from gum disease
- Having underlying oral health problems like gingivitis
- Experienced bone loss due to a tooth abscess
However, each case is different. Tell your dentist about any medical problems you have, and they’ll let you know if implants are an option for you.
One alternative for patients who can’t have conventional implants is mini dental implants. These are similar in structure to their larger counterparts but have a thinner root about the width of a toothpick. This means that less bone is needed to hold them in place. Here is a little more information about what mini-implants are and the major differences between standard dental implants.
What are mini-implants and how much do they cost?
mini-implants generally cost much less than regular ones, but they do have certain drawbacks which is why they may not necessarily be a suitable alternative. Mini dental implants have the same structure as regular implants but are slightly smaller in form. The mini-implants res.
What are my Mini Implant options?
Going through the traditional process of having dental implants fitted can take several months and requires at least two dental appointments to complete the procedure. Certain elements of dental implants may require bone-grafting to supply sufficient bone to the jaw area. It can feel like quite invasive surgery at times, albeit, the results outweigh the issues people find with the prices under itself. However, mini-implants can be an excellent alternative if your jaw hasn’t got sufficient bone mass to withstand the implant. Dentists can usually install mini-implants in one visit by using local anesthesia. Best of all, you can even use your new teeth on the very same day.
Caring for Mini-Implants have two elements. They have a titanium post with a ball on the end, and a socket with a rubber O-ring that attaches the tooth to the post. mini-implants can support most types of replacement teeth. These include dentures, bridges, and fixed crowns. However, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry says mini-implants are also suitable for securing loose and lower arch dentu
Mini-implants require the same level of care as normal dental implants and your natural teeth. This includes flossing and brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. The gums will likely be sensitive after treatment of implants, whether standard dental implants or mini-implants, so it’s worth remembering this when brushing your teeth.
Whether you go for dental implants or mini-implants, your dentist will be best advised to examine you and advise you on which course of action to take. But it is well worth knowing what your options are in these situations.
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants costs can vary depending on the situation, whether you need the normal two appointments or if you need further treatment in terms of bone-grafting and strengthening the jaw before installing an implant into your gum. While you may be thinking there is a big cost to having dental implants it is worth remembering that this is a long-term solution. So often the Investment versus time can help you to come to a decision. The cost for a dental implant to replace a single tooth is estimated to be in the range of $3,000 to $4,500, according to The New York Times. However, the key for you to get the lowest possible cost is to check with a credentialed dental implant expert.
It is worth remembering some of the reasons why you may have a dental implant fitted. These include:
- Being a long-term solution – in some cases, they can last as long as your natural teeth which is as long as you will need them.
- Less invasive when it comes to your natural teeth – some procedures to replace missing teeth can damage your gum or other natural teeth that you still have in place.
- The option of mini-implants should you need them – if your jaw bone isn’t strong enough or you want a different solution then this could work out really well for you.
- The natural look – a dental implant depending on what sort of tooth you have fitted, can give the most natural look in terms of appearance.
- A boost in confidence when it comes to your smile and appearance – can help you to feel better about yourself in many situations.
If you are looking for dental implants in Houston then hopefully the above information can help to put your mind at rest.