A General Guide To Dental Implants

It's true that the field of dentistry has made leaps and bounds in technology and methodology, but unfortunately there are millions of people who still suffer from tooth loss.  This might be as a result of injury, tooth decay, gingivitis, or gum disease.

In the past, dentures and bridges were the only options for people missing teeth, but now with the invention of dental implants, this cosmetic surgery is fast becoming the most popular way for people to resolve the embarrassment of missing teeth.

The two main advantages of dental implants are:

• They're created from a strong foundation, and
• They're designed to look exactly like your own natural teeth.

Dental implants are made from titanium, and there are many additional benefits to using these devices to replace missing teeth:

• Your appearance is improved because these teeth look and act as normal teeth.
• The dental implant fuses with the jawbone, so it becomes a permanent fixture.
• Your speech can improve dramatically.  Ill-fitting dentures can adversely affect speech, causing a patient to mumble their words.
• Dental implants are so comfortable you won't even know they're there.  Chewing some foods with dentures can be uncomfortable, and sometimes impossible.  With a dental implant you can eat all the foods you loved in the past, with no discomfort at all.

What's the Success Rate of Dental Implants?

The success rate of these titanium dental devices is determined by where the device is placed in the jawbone; however, generally they have a 95% success rate.  Even better news is that, with correct oral maintenance, your dental implant can last for a lifetime.

Unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants.  To become approved for this surgery, you must be in good health, your gums must be healthy, and you must have sufficient density of bone on your jawline to hold the device.   Those who are not ideal candidates include those who:

• Are heavy smokers;
• Are pregnant;
• Have heart disease;
• Have diabetes; or
• Have had radiation treatment.

Is This a Painful Procedure?

A lot of people assume that having a dental implant will be painful, but people who have experienced this procedure state they had little or no discomfort.  Remember also that this procedure is done under local anesthesia.

Important Note about Insurance

If you're considering having dental implants, it should be noted that this procedure is not covered by dental insurance.  However, it may be covered under your plan if you have medical insurance.  This will of course be determined by the type of plan you have and what is the reason for your loss of tooth.  Make enquiries with your insurance provider to see if this procedure might be covered under your current plan.

For more information about the implant procedure, contact a professional such as Christopher L. Schneider, DMD.