For many years, when a person lost a tooth because of decay or injury, the only solutions were dentures or bridges. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that more closely replicates the look and feel of natural teeth.
Dental implants are small metal posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. Dentists attach crowns to these posts to replace the look and function of a missing tooth.
Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are permanently anchored in the jaw bone of the patient. Dental implants do not slide around in the mouth the way that dentures or bridges can. This makes it easier for patients to eat and chew and avoids the discomfort that can be caused by dentures or bridges rubbing against the gums or other structures of the mouth.
Many patients prefer the appearance of implants to dentures, which can improve self-esteem. Implants may be easier to care for because there is no need to remove them for cleaning. Because implants do not need to be anchored by adjacent teeth, there is no risk of the implant failing due to decay in the surrounding teeth.
The primary disadvantages of dental implants are the cost and recovery time. Additionally, not everyone who wants implants can get them. Dental implants require surgery that is usually more expensive than what patients would typically pay for dentures or bridges. Additionally, because patients must wait for the jawbone to grow around the implant after the implant surgery, it can take several months for the entire implant procedure to be complete.
As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. In some cases, there may be damage to other structures in the mouth, sinus problems, or nerve damage. However, these complications rarely occur and can usually be treated.
Some patients are unable to receive dental implants because of underlying health conditions or not having enough jawbone to support the implant. Patients with insufficient or soft jawbones may be able to have implants after a bone graft procedure.
Dental implants are designed to be permanent. However, the crowns attached to implants sometimes need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. According to a study published on PubMed.gov, about 50% to 80% of crowns need replacement within 15 to 20 years.
You can extend the life of your implants and crowns by maintaining an oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice per day. Floss once per day and schedule regular visits with a dental professional. Reduce the chance of damaging your crowns by avoiding hard foods and limiting your consumption of staining substances, such as tobacco, coffee, and wine. If you grind your teeth, talk to a dental professional about treatment options.
Dental implants carry some risks but offer many benefits to people who have missing teeth. If you are seeking a permanent solution to your tooth loss, implants may be an option for you.
Request an appointment here: https://siegertdental.com or call Siegert Dental at (608) 394-3943 for an appointment in our Onalaska office.
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