Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Dental Implants have been around for a long time: Egyptian mummies were found with gold-wire implants in their jawbone. Of course, today’s technology allows for much more sophisticated forms of dental implants.

But when exactly do you need a dental implant? Are they really worth the cost and the pain? Townsville Dentist discusses all you need to know about getting dental implants.

What are dental implants?

A modern dental implant is essentially a replacement tooth that consists of titanium screw surgically implanted into your jawbone. It is used as an anchor for a crown, bridge or dentures. It acts as the roots of a missing tooth.

When do you need dental implants?

Your dentist might recommend a dental implant if you have lost a tooth due to an accident, tooth decay, gum disease or root canal failure. Implants offer a permanent solution to a lost tooth. They can also serve as a secure anchor for dentures and bridges if someone has multiple missing teeth.

And while there are no age limitations for dental implants, a dentist still needs to conduct a thorough evaluation before certifying you are suitable for implants. Patients need to have healthy gums with adequate bone in order to support the implant. They also need to be in good overall health to be able to cope with the oral surgery and heal properly.

Procedure for dental implants

Getting a dental implant does involve surgery and you will be placed under local anesthesia.

The surgery starts with the dental surgeon preparing the jaw for implantation. They will create a small-diameter hole in the jaw bone to help guide the titanium screw that holds the implant in place. Once the initial hole has been created, the dental surgeon will slowly and carefully widen the hole to place the implant screw. Once it has been placed, often a cover screw is placed on top to help the implant site heal and the dental implant to anchor.

However, procedures can differ from person-to-person depending on each individual circumstance. Your dentist will be able to fully explain what your procedure entails.

Benefits of having dental implants?

While dental implants take a fair amount of time and can be costly, there are numerous benefits to getting a proper dental implant for your missing teeth.

• It helps prevent bone loss
  • Losing teeth can also include loss of bone mass in your jaw. This is because your jaw bone needs stimulation, from when your teeth connect, to maintain its mass. Dental implants are the only form of tooth replacement that helps you prevent bone loss as it provides that stimulation.
• Restores your bite force
  • Dental implants are replacements for the root of your tooth and are tightly anchored into your jaw. This means they allow you to bite with close to the same amount of force you use with natural teeth. It will be easier for you to chew on food, making eating a smoother process.
• Maintains Natural Speech
  • Some tooth replacement procedures like dentures can impact your speech. Missing teeth can also impact your ability to pronounce words correctly. Dental implants are made to feel and function like natural teeth. They will enable you to speak with much more ease and more naturally.
• Better for Apperance
  • Certain forms of teeth replacement, especially dentures can often make people feel self-conscious when they are speaking, laughing, smiling or eating. Dentures can visibly move and slip inside your mouth. Dental implants on the other hand are firmly planted into your jawbone and don’t move around no matter what you’re doing.
• Better Oral Health
  • Dental implants don’t need other teeth to be reduced, unlike tooth-supported bridge. As nearby teeth aren’t altered, more of your teeth are left intact. Plus individual dental implants allow for easier access to clean between teeth for better hygiene.

Talk to your dentist

There are numerous benefits to dental implants that can help improve your dental health and your overall well-being. If at all you are unsure, feel free to speak to the professionals at Townsville Dentist. Our surgeons have years of experience with dental implants and can ensure you are getting quality treatment.

Take the first step for better oral health and make an appointment with us.