Do you ever wonder what happens when a person loses a tooth? It might be due to an accident, cavity, gum disease and other reason. Whatever the reason, missing teeth make it difficult to eat, speak, or smile with confidence. The good news is that dentists have a great solution called dental implants!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small (little) titanium post that will act like your tooth root. First, the dentist puts the post into your jawbone, and then, with time, the bone grows up around the implant. This makes the implant strong and stable. Once the post is securely in place, the dentist places a crown (the visible part of the tooth) on top. So, it acts and looks like a real tooth!
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
You may be wondering, “Can anyone get dental implants?” The answer is no. Certain conditions and factors determine who can or cannot get dental implants in Grande Prairie.
- Age: Normally, children and teenagers are not the right candidates for dental implants because their jaws are still developing. Dentists recommend waiting until a person’s jaw has stopped growing, which is around 16 in girls and 18 in boys. Adults are normally suitable!
- Jawbone Health: The health of the jawbone is crucial for dental implants. The bone must be strong enough to hold the implant securely. If there has been significant bone loss due to missing teeth, a bone graft may be necessary. A bone graft is a procedure where the dentist adds bone material to the jaw to strengthen it.
- Gum Health: Healthy gums are also necessary for dental implants. If a person has gum disease, it has to be treated before implants can be installed. Healthy gums protect the implant and aid in proper healing.
- Overall Health: A person’s overall health also plays a significant role. Conditions like diabetes or heart disease can make it harder for implants to heal. Smoking is also discouraged, as it can negatively impact the healing process. Dentists often evaluate a patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and habits before recommending implants.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Here are some of the pros and cons of dental implants including:
Pros
- Natural Look and Feel: Implants look and function like real teeth, providing a seamless appearance.
- Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, and sometimes even a lifetime.
- Bone Health: Implants help maintain jawbone health by replacing the tooth root, preventing bone loss.
- No Impact on Other Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support.
Cons
- Surgery Required: The procedure involves surgery, which carries risks such as infection, nerve damage and more.
- Time-Intensive: The entire process can take several months, including the healing period.
- Cost: Implants are often more expensive than other tooth replacement options(alternative).
- Possible Complications: In rare cases, the implant may not fuse with the bone properly or may become loose over time.
What to Expect During the Process?
Getting dental implants involves several steps:
- Initial Examination: The dentist near you examines your mouth and takes X-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for implants.
- Implant Surgery: If you qualify, the dentist performs the surgery under local anesthesia to place the implant in your jawbone.
- Healing Period: After surgery, the implant needs several months to heal and bond with the bone.
- Crown Placement: Once the implant is stable, the dentist attaches the crown, giving you a new tooth that looks and feels like your natural teeth.
With dental implants, individuals can regain the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Consult your dentist to see if this life-changing solution is right for you.
Restore Your Confident Smile With Dental Implants Today!
Northern Dental Centre offers dental implants to restore patients’ smiles. Our experienced team of Grande Prairie dentists uses advanced technology to provide personalized care in a comfortable setting. We understand the importance of a confident smile and are dedicated to helping you achieve it.
Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today to schedule your consultation at Northern Dental Centre.
Related Topic: What Makes Dental Implants the “Gold Standard?”