A growing number of adults are choosing to replace missing natural teeth with Dental Implants. As the reputation of implants grows, more people are learning that implants are safe, dependable, look and feel natural and are designed to last your lifetime.
Too, Dental Implants have one of the highest implant-in-bone success rates (including that of knees and hip joints). Dental Implants do not decay, will never need a root canal and do not rely on support from neighboring teeth. The most appealing aspect of implants, however, is how they restore your ability to bite and chew comfortably, laugh with confidence and speak without worry.
Dental Implants have been around for decades and have been perfected over the years. There are many types of implants, each designed to accommodate specific needs. A qualified, experienced dentist can determine the type that will work best for you.
In addition to the different types of implants, they come in various shapes and sizes and have different components. Some are placed in unique angles or in various intervals. To understand how implants work, we’ve provided an explanation below.
For example, some implant systems are designed to support non-removable teeth while others may support teeth that are detachable for cleaning. Some implants support one or several teeth while others are designed for placement in minimum bone mass.
• The ‘implanted’ portions of Dental Implants are actually tooth root replacements. This portion is placed in your jaw bone where it will become secured by the bone growing around it. This process is known as osseo-integration.
• The process of osseo-integration takes several months. This process can be likened to a tree branch that grows around a rope tied around it for a very long time. Osseo-integration is similar but occurs at a much more rapid pace.
• After 3-6 months, the implant has become secured by the bone. A post is then inserted into the center of the implant and a replacement tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post. Your new tooth looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth.
• Keep in mind that the ‘implant’ is not the tooth. The implant is designed to support the post that holds the tooth (referred to as the ‘restoration’). By being placed in the jaw bone, just as a natural tooth root, the implant can support the attached tooth with a firm foundation for optimal stability.
• An implant can support more than one tooth, in most cases. Therefore, is not necessary to place an implant for each missing tooth. One implant is often used to support two or a bridge of teeth. Several strategically-placed implants can support a full arch of teeth.
• Dental Implant treatment costs are largely based on the number of implants placed. When an implant can hold a bridge of teeth or several implants are used to secure a full arch of teeth, this helps to keep overall treatment fees to a minimum.
Regardless of the type of implant placed, it is important to remember that implants do occasionally fail. Night-time clenching or grinding teeth can be a factor. Smoking dries out oral tissues and delays the healing process, which can also contribute to implant failure. Poor oral hygiene routines can also lead to failure. If infection sets in and reaches the implanted portion, the implant may need to be removed to fully resolve the problem.
In our office, we strive to make sure each patient understands their treatment and all options available that coincide with their needs and goals. If you’ve considered Dental Implants, call 586-739-2155 to arrange a free, no obligation consultation.
During this time, we’ll discuss the implant types that are best suited for your needs and goals and anticipated costs. We can also have our Financial Coordinator explain various payment options that are interest-free with no down payment required.
