Dental implants can be a great option for those that lose teeth or wish to improve the function of their mouth. Living without certain teeth can impact the ease of eating and also hinder confidence.
Whether you are considering dental implants for missing teeth or other reasons, here is everything to know about dental implants and their benefits.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants involve a surgical and restorative procedure to install a prosthesis into the gums, which connects to the bone of the jaw to mimic a real tooth.
They are designed to fuse with the bone along the jaw so that they offer long-lasting results. They work to blend in with the other teeth to offer a natural look and feel.
Who Are Good Candidates For Dental Implants?
Although most people can be suitable for dental implants, the best candidates are those with good oral health and hygiene. The cleaner and healthier your teeth and gums are, the easier the implant process will be.
An ideal patient is someone who has adult teeth and wishes to replace one or more teeth.
There are some health conditions that can hinder your chance of being a good dental implant candidate. Anyone with diabetes, gum disease, or specific bis-phosphate conditions (bone issues) could be turned away from dental implant procedures. This is due to the procedure causing potential implications and harm to a person’s health.
Furthermore, smokers can sometimes be a bad candidate for dental implants as smoke can deter the healing process of an implant, known as vasoconstriction. This is where the smoke will hinder the blood flow to the implant.
Why Gaps In The Teeth Need To Be Filled
Dental implants can work to replace teeth or fill gaps. It is common for patients to seek dental implants to fill in the gaps in their teeth for a fuller look.
Before getting dental implants, you will need to have a good oral condition. This will mean that any dental problems will need to be fixed before the implants take place. Filling in gaps in the teeth that could lead to decay is one common procedure. Filling in other gaps that could help the structure and longevity of the implant will also be recommended.
Benefits Of Getting Dental Implants
There are several benefits of getting dental implants that a patient can enjoy:
- Healthier gums – patients can enjoy healthier gums and overall oral health when they get dental implants. This is due to the implants reducing the risk of gum damage (where a tooth is missing) and their ability to reduce plaque build-up.
- Prevents bone loss – when a tooth is missing in the mouth, the bone density will weaken. This can cause bone loss. Hence, placing implants where teeth are missing will strengthen the bone density in the jaw.
- Facial appearance – a full set of teeth will improve facial appearance and enhance a smile.
- Improved bite – having all teeth placed securely in the gums will improve a person’s bite and help improve comfort while eating.
At Avalon Dental we would love to educate and guide you if you are seeking more information and professional help about dental implants. Request an appointment online, or call us at (347) 472-0318.