Missing teeth can affect more than just your confidence – they can lead to digestive problems, speech issues and even increase your risk of developing gum disease.
If you’re currently dealing with tooth loss, rest assured, there are options available to you. Dental implants are a great choice for many, offering natural, long-lasting results.
In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know about dental implants, from who makes an ideal candidate, to how they work and how long you can expect them to last.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Dental implants have been used to replace missing teeth for decades and are becoming an increasingly popular treatment option.
The implant consists of a titanium post that integrates with your jawbone, serving as a sturdy replacement for the natural tooth root. Once the implant is securely bonded with the bone, an artificial tooth is attached to it, resulting in a natural-looking smile.
Why Do People Get Dental Implants?
When a tooth is lost, whether due to injury or disease, it can lead to a variety of complications, such as impaired speech and bone loss. Replacing missing teeth with a dental implant can significantly improve a patient’s overall health, restoring their smile to its former glory.
Dental implants offer several key benefits, including:
- Preserving the health and surrounding bone and gums
- Supporting the stability of adjacent teeth
- Restoring the ability to chew properly
- Boosting confidence and self-esteem
- Improving the patient’s overall quality of life.
Who is a Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
While the majority of patients are suitable candidates for dental implants, various factors must first be considered. These include:
• Your Overall Health
Patients should be in good overall health to ensure a positive healing process. Certain medical conditions or medications can impact the success of the implant, so it’s important to provide your dentist with a complete medical history during your consultation.
• Your Gum Health
To provide stability to your implant, healthy gums are essential. If gum disease is detected by your dentist, this must be treated before proceeding with treatment.
• Your Oral Health
Ideal candidates for dental implants will have good oral hygiene. Any existing issues, such as infections or cavities will need to be addressed before placing the implant.
• Your Age
Dental implants are generally suitable for most adults, as long as the jawbone has fully developed. Even older adults can often be ideal candidates, as long as they meet the required health criteria.
• Your Bone Health
Adequate jaw bone density and volume are required to support dental implants. If there is bone loss due to factors such as gum disease or tooth extraction, bone grafting may be necessary to augment the bone.
During an initial consultation, your dentist will assess whether dental implants are the right option for you and recommend alternative treatment options if required.
How Long is the Process For Dental Implants?
Initial Consultation
Once you’ve chosen dental implants as the best option for achieving your dream smile, the next step is to schedule a consultation.
During this visit, your dentist will thoroughly review your overall health to ensure there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed before moving forward with the implant procedure.
In some cases, your dentist may be able to perform minor treatments during this appointment. However, if more extensive care is needed, a follow-up appointment may be required, which could slightly delay the start of the implant process.
Your consultation will typically last up to 60 minutes, giving you the ideal opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Procedure
The length of time the dental implant procedure will take depends on how many teeth are being treated. On average, each tooth takes about one to two hours to complete.
After the implants are placed, they will take at least 12 weeks to heal fully, provided you follow the recommended aftercare guidelines. Only once your implants are healed can the crowns be fitted.
Follow-Up Appointment
Once your implants have fully healed, you’ll return to the clinic for your final appointment, in which your dentist will securely attach the crowns to your implants.
In total, the entire dental implant process typically takes anywhere from 8 weeks to 6 months.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to provide a long-term, permanent solution, with many lasting over a decade, and even a lifetime, with the right maintenance.
While the implant itself can last even longer, the crown attached to it may require replacement sooner due to everyday wear and tear, making it more susceptible to damage than the implant.
Numerous factors can influence the longevity of your dental implants, including:
• The Quality of the Implant
At Lux Dental, we use premium-grade titanium implants to ensure you receive the most durable and effective solution possible.
• Proper Dental Care
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of your implants. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups can prevent gum disease, ensuring your implants remain functional and healthy for years to come.
• Lifestyle Choices
Your lifestyle choices play a critical role in the longevity of your implants. Smoking, drinking excessively and following a poor diet can weaken bone density, affecting the stability of your implants. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your dental implants.
How Do You Clean Dental Implants?
As with any surgical procedure, your implants will take time to heal.
To ensure a smooth recovery, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions closely and avoid anything that could irritate your gums.
Your dentist will provide specific cleaning guidelines, but in most cases, you should care for your implants just as you would your natural teeth. For optimal care, be sure to:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss at least once a day
- Use mouthwash
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.
Are You a Good Candidate For Dental Implants? Get in Touch!
At Lux Dental, we’re pleased to be trusted, experienced dental implant providers, offering high-quality care and expertise. If you’re considering dental implants and want to learn more about whether this treatment is right for you, please schedule a consultation today.
During your visit, one of our knowledgeable and friendly dentists will take the time to assess your individual needs and answer any questions you may have.
Take the first step towards restoring your smile – book a consultation now!