Living with missing teeth is extremely challenging and uncomfortable. It compromises essential functions like chewing and speech. Moreover, it promotes jaw bone loss which can change facial proportions. It can put a dent in self-confidence and for many, it can be a source of stress and anxiety. Therefore, it becomes essential to replace missing teeth with the help of dental prostheses like dental dentures, bridges, and implants.
While dentures and bridges are great teeth replacement options, they do not offer a permanent solution and cannot replicate the functions of the natural teeth to their entirety. Thanks to the advancements in dental science, dental implants were introduced in the mid-1960s to combat these disadvantages.
What are dental implants?
Dental Implants can be thought of as a screw-shaped fixture that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It takes over six months for the implant to become one with the jawbone. Once the implant integrates, it serves as a foundation for the placement of dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.
What is the procedure for dental implants?
At Essex Family Dental, dental implants are used for replacing single, multiple, or all missing teeth. The procedure starts with an initial consultation. Our dentist will examine your oral health and ask you questions regarding your medical history to evaluate if dental implants are the right choice for you. In some cases of acute illness and uncontrolled blood sugar levels, dental implants may not be recommended.
Next, they will make a treatment plan for you and advise you on the number of implants required according to individual cases. For example, in cases of multiple missing teeth or all missing teeth, the number of implants necessary for the procedure differs. Once finalized, you will be scheduled for your surgery.
The surgery starts with administering local anesthesia to ensure you have a comfortable and pain-free experience. Next, an incision is given on the gums to expose the jawbone. Specialized drills are used to create a hole in the jawbone where a dental implant is fixed. Once the position of the implant is checked and everything looks good, your dentist will close the site with the help of sutures.
Over six months, the implant will integrate with the bone; a crown, bridge, or denture will be fixed over it, which completes the procedure.
Why choose dental implants?
Dental implants have towering benefits over traditional teeth replacement options. They are fixed to the jawbone and mimic a natural tooth’s root. By this, they stimulate the jawbone and stop the process of bone loss. This ensures that your facial proportions remain unchanged and oral harmony is maintained. Dental implants enhance your smile and give you a youthful appearance.
Unlike dentures, implants restore complete chewing as they can sustain forces equal to our natural teeth. Dental implants also improve speech and ensure clear enunciations.
They look and feel natural, and once a crown or denture is placed on them, they blend seamlessly in the mouth. Once dental implants have integrated with the bone, they require minimal maintenance. Just brush twice a day and floss every day like you usually do to maintain your implants. Dental implants offer a fixed and permanent solution to missing teeth and last a lifetime with proper care.
Dental implants have gained immense popularity due to their advantages and aesthetics. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us at Essex Family Dental, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent dental professionals will be there to assist you in your journey to a glistening smile and better health.
