Losing a tooth is something that can happen to anyone. In such situations, teeth (dental) implants are usually the best long-term solution.
While these implants offer longevity, many people are cautious to consider them, primarily because of the costs involved and complications (in rare cases).
Consulting with an experienced dentist usually helps to allay such fears, helping patients to see the benefits of these implants. If you have a missing tooth and are researching available options, click here for dental implants in Honolulu.
But first, here’s everything you need to know about teeth implants.
Teeth Implants: A Long-Term Solution
Dental implants come in several forms. For instance, there are those placed in the jawbone (endosteal), those placed under the gum but above the jawbone (subperiosteal), etc. Endosteal implants are the ones that last long. Here, a tiny stake-like piece of metal is implanted into the jawbone. With time, this implant gradually fuses with the jawbone structure, providing the anchor for the crown (the tooth-looking top part) later on. These types of implants are the ones that last longer than all the other types, sometimes as much as decades.
What Causes the Need for Teeth Implants?
While seemingly a trivial thing, a missing tooth is detrimental to your general dental health. For starters, the bite power in that area is lost. This bite power is necessary to maintain bone density in that part of the jaw. With the loss of such bite power, gradual bone loss sets in. This bone loss will begin to cause nearby teeth to shift, disrupting normal dentition. Additionally, the gap left by a missing tooth acts as a convenient place for the accumulation of food particles, encouraging bacteria to act on such food and increasing the likelihood of tooth decay to the adjacent teeth.
For those reasons, addressing a missing tooth is crucial to one’s general dental health, ensuring subsequent tooth loss is avoided. A permanent dental implant helps to ensure this.
Are They Worth It?
Dental implants can cost several thousands of dollars or more. This cost depends on several factors, including the number of missing teeth to be replaced, where you’ll undergo the procedure, etc. At the low end, a single implant can cost about $1500. As with any surgical procedure, there is always the risk of complications like infections, allergic reactions, nerve damage, among others. While such risks and costs may seem troubling, it helps to remember the benefits that these implants offer. Such benefits include:
i) Durability: Expect to enjoy many years of durability once you get dental implants. Titanium is usually the material of choice for these implants, lasting an average of 10 years for a vast majority of those that receive them.
ii) Prevention of bone loss: Implants aid in the prevention of bone loss in the alveolar ridge of the jawbone. This is the part that contains the tooth socket. The stress associated with chewing is necessary for maintaining bone density. When such stress is lost due to a missing tooth, the body begins to reabsorb the bone tissue in that area. Typically, this begins in as little as 3 months from the time of tooth loss. A dental implant helps to avoid this issue because it’ll enable an individual to chew using that part of the jawbone.
iii) Restoration of appearance: Tooth loss can be devastating to one’s appearance. Having missing teeth, especially visible ones, can make people very conscious of themselves when speaking or smiling in public. This can lead to low self-esteem. Additionally, missing teeth can lead to collapsed cheeks, sagging skin, and a sunken appearance. All these changes can lead to a grotesque facial appearance, further contributing to self-esteem issues. Teeth implants can help prevent such issues by maintaining the jawbone’s structural integrity.
iv) Stability of adjacent teeth: Having a missing tooth means the adjacent teeth will begin to shift toward the gap, leading to their misalignment. This can cause problems during chewing. Dental implants ensure that the gaps created by missing teeth don’t lead to such problems.
v) A natural look and feel: Once you’ve had dental implants in place, they’ll feel natural. In the first few weeks, the implant may feel out of place. Gradually, your mouth will acclimate to it. Also, implants look just like teeth, making it difficult for anyone to notice that they aren’t natural.
The above benefits are why teeth implants are worth it. Sure, they may have higher upfront costs. However, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of money and dental visits in the long run. Properly fitted dental implants provide the same functionality and appearance as natural teeth.
Ultimately, you’ll want to consider dental implants for missing teeth if you want to avoid numerous future complications for your dentition.
Why you should choose a professional dental clinic for getting teeth implants?
Choosing a professional dental clinic for getting teeth implants is paramount for guaranteeing a successful and satisfactory outcome. While many dental providers may propose implant services, opting for a reputable and professional clinic can make a world of difference in terms of both health and aesthetics.
First and foremost, professional dental clinics specialize in implant procedures, backed by a team of efficient oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and dental technicians. Their expertise is honed through years of education, training, and hands-on experience, ensuring that they are well-versed in the intricate procedures and potential difficulties associated with teeth implants. This level of proficiency lowers the risk of errors and complications during the implantation process.
Additionally, reputable clinics employ state-of-the-art technology and adhere to the latest industry practices. This allows for more precise planning and execution of implant procedures, resulting in higher success rates and minimized discomfort for patients. Cutting-edge diagnostic tools like 3D imaging and computer-guided implant placement enable professionals to accurately assess bone density, nerve positioning, and anatomical structures, enhancing the overall safety and effectiveness of the procedure.
Moreover, professional dental clinics prioritize patient safety and comfort. They maintain rigorous sterilization protocols and follow stringent hygiene standards to prevent infections and ensure a clean environment. Furthermore, these clinics often offer a range of sedation options to ease anxiety and pain during the implantation process, creating a more relaxed and stress-free experience for patients. The preference for a professional dental clinic also flares to post-operative care. These clinics deliver comprehensive follow-up appointments and guidance to monitor the healing process and address any concerns that may arise.
