One of the procedures dentists find themselves performing more of these days is the dental implant. What exactly is this and why are more and more people opting for this tooth replacement procedure over other tooth replacement solutions? Is a dental implant ideal for you?
A dental implant is a device that is used to replace missing teeth, with the replacement tooth or teeth being anchored to the patient’s jaw using an implant screw. The screw that is implanted into the person’s jaw is usually made of titanium, since this particular metal seems to fuse well with a person’s bone. The healing of the bone around the implant is one of the key factors for the success of the implant, since this will help keep the replacement tooth in place.
Pros and Cons of an Implant
There are many reasons why a dental implant is often chosen by patients when it comes to replacing lost teeth. For one, these are rooted to your jaw, making these feel like your own teeth. This also makes the act of chewing easier since these won’t slip or come loose, unlike dentures.
Dental implants are also chosen by many due to the fact that these do not cover a person’s palate, which an upper denture does, and this makes eating more pleasurable since it does not reduce a person’s sense of taste. Implants also negate the need for dental adhesives, as well as remove the fear of dentures falling out when speaking, since these are firmly affixed to your jaw.
While a dental implant is indeed a great alternative to dentures and other tooth replacements, one of the drawbacks of this procedure is the price. A single implant with a crown can cost you a few thousand dollars, with only a few insurance companies covering such a procedure. This usually makes people who are considering getting an implant over a bridge, or a denture, reconsider their decision.
If you think about it, these implants may cost more at the beginning, but in the long run, you will find that these are actually better than other tooth restoration options. These are really like having your own teeth, which means that dental care is the same as when you would take care of your own teeth. Of course, even if you might decide to go with this option for your missing tooth or teeth, you will still need to find out if you are eligible for such a procedure.
Who Can Get a Dental Implant?
Not everyone can become a suitable candidate for these dental implants. There are certain factors that need to be considered before a dentist decides that this is the right solution for you. There are some people who are told outright that they are not ideal for this procedure, and these include women who are pregnant, youngsters who are still growing, heavy smokers, and those who are under immune system suppressing medication.
Also part of the list of people who are not ideal candidates for dental implants are those who suffer from connective tissue problems, hemophilia, have uncontrolled diabetes, and those who clench or grind their teeth habitually. Those with substance abuse issues are also considered not ideal for implants as well. People with these concerns may be told by the dentist of the probable difficulties they may encounter when they get an implant.
When being considered for a dental implant, you will need to have healthy gums, a solid and ample jaw bone for the implant to be anchored into, and the right attitude towards the care of these implants. Your dentist will assess all these and will ask you questions regarding your commitment to the health of your new teeth. You will also undergo an examination by the dentist, as well as his implant team, before anything is truly decided upon.
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