At Ardsley Dental Spa, we understand that choosing a dental restoration procedure can be a significant decision. Dental implants have become a popular choice due to their durability and functionality. This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of dental implants, helping you make an informed decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a state-of-the-art replacement for missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, which rest on the gum’s surface, implants are anchored in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. This mimics the natural structure of teeth, offering a stronger and more reliable solution.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Appearance: Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. They are designed to fuse with bone, becoming permanent.
- Speech: With poor-fitting dentures, teeth can slip within the mouth, causing you to mumble. Dental implants allow you to speak without worry.
- Comfort: As they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
- Eating: Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
- Self-esteem: Dental implants can give back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
- Oral health: Unlike a tooth-supported bridge, dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth. More of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health.
- Durability: Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
- Convenience: Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Consultation and Planning
Initially, you will undergo a detailed dental examination at Ardsley Dental Spa, where we will take X-rays and discuss your medical history. This step is crucial to ensure you are a suitable candidate for implants.
Implant Placement
The dental implant, made of titanium, is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. Once the implant has been placed, it needs to integrate with the bone, a process that can take several months.
Abutment and Crown Placement
Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector post called an abutment is attached to hold the new tooth. After your gums heal, we will make impressions of your teeth to create the crown, which is then attached to the abutment.
Caring for Dental Implants
Though dental implants do not decay, proper oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure their longevity. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
Q&A Section
Q1: Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
A1: Most people in good general health whose jawbone can support an implant are candidates. There are few medical conditions that may contraindicate implant placement, which we will assess during your consultation.
Q2: How painful is getting dental implants?
A2: Most people who have received dental implants say there is very little discomfort involved. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction.
Q3: How long does the entire process take?
A3: The total time depends on your dental health, the number of teeth involved, and the specifics of your individual case. Typically, the process can take anywhere from five months to over a year.
Q4: How successful are dental implants?
A4: The success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%.
Q5: Are there any alternatives to dental implants?
A5: Yes, alternatives like dentures or bridges are available. These can be preferable for patients who are not suitable for surgery or prefer a less invasive option.
Conclusion
Dental implants are a revolutionary advancement in dental care, providing a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for those who have lost teeth. At Ardsley Dental Spa, we are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to the final placement. If you’re considering dental implants, contact us today to schedule your appointment.