Dentures have been a standby solution for patients for generations, and have long stood as the best solution for missing teeth. Innovations in dental implant technology have served to change the playing field, providing the most natural solution available to patients with missing teeth. Instead of using messy adhesives and having to reapply them regularly, dental implants are mounted on titanium abutments placed in your jawbone, making them both secure and natural in appearance.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a natural-appearing replacement for missing teeth that remove the need for soaking in cleaner and adhesives needed with traditional dentures. These prostheses are mounted on the aforementioned abutments and have been shown to have a 95% success rate in patients. Since these implants don’t use neighboring teeth to anchor themselves in place, nor do they rest on the gum line themselves, they are an effective long-term solution for patients with missing teeth. Further, the titanium material that’s used for the abutments stimulates bone growth and reconstruction. This means the jaw is strengthened by implants and the teeth are firmly held in place.
Are Dental Implants Appropriate For My Case?
Dental implants are a great solution for an adult patient who is living with missing teeth. Patients whose teeth and jaws are still developing generally won’t be candidates for dental implants as it’s important to let their oral structures develop naturally. Once a patient’s jaws and teeth have finished growing, they can consider dental implant surgery if they still have missing teeth. Some health concerns can make dental implants inappropriate for some patients, Dr. Romans or Dr. Soltani will be able to advise you if your case is appropriate for dental implants during your visit.
How Long Does The Procedure To Get Dental Implants Take?
The process begins with the extraction of any teeth that have been determined to be unsuitable for saving through other methods. Healing from an extracted tooth generally takes 2-3 months to complete before the patient can receive a dental implant. Following this healing process, the titanium abutments can be put in place as part of another surgery. These implants will require 2-3 additional months to heal and the bone to reconstruct and bond with them. After this period of healing, the prosthetic teeth can be mounted on the abutments, and your process will be completed.
Is It Safe To Get Dental Implants?
No surgical procedure is completely free from risk, but the dental implant procedure is considered very safe. In the rare case that complications occur, they will typically appear in the form of infection, though regular dental hygiene can help prevent this during the healing process. If you smoke or experience bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, you may experience additional complications. Your dentist will explain these to you and will track your progress over your regular checkups.
Do Dental Implants Require A Bone Graft?
Patients who have experienced bone loss from previous dental health concerns may require a bone graft in order to benefit from dental implants. Bone grafts are only necessary in cases where there isn’t enough thickness or strength in the patient’s jawbone to support implants.
If you’re wondering if dental implants may be right for you, be sure to give our office a call at 1-315-487-1545 to schedule an appointment at our clinic in Camillus, NY. During your visit to our offices, you’ll be given an examination, and your dentist will discuss dental implants with you and determine if they’re appropriate for your case.
