An implant dentist is at the forefront of restorative dentistry and can offer the latest tooth replacement options. Dental implants replace missing tooth roots, meaning the attached restorations are more secure and lifelike than older, removable dental prosthetics. They also offer important, long-term benefits for your oral health.
If you are considering dental implants, you likely have a number of questions about the procedure and your candidacy. Dr. Matthew Bridges is happy to answer all of your questions and provide a comprehensive consultation prior to treatment. Contact our office today with any questions or to book an appointment.
Is an implant appropriate if I have a missing front tooth?
A dental implant can be a great option if you are missing a single tooth. The other alternative would be a dental bridge and, while this can still be a good solution, it does require alteration of your surrounding teeth. In contrast, an implant-supported restoration sits directly on the implant post and does not affect your other teeth.
Furthermore, implant-supported crowns are highly lifelike, making them ideal for your more visible front teeth.
Are implants suitable for people with no teeth?
Multiple implants can support a full upper or lower denture. It is also possible to receive both an upper and lower implant-supported denture at the same time.
Whether you are considering one implant or several, Dr. Bridges will need to assess your candidacy for treatment. Certain chronic health conditions may affect your eligibility, as can your jawbone health. Fortunately, if you have suffered jawbone recession, an oral surgeon can often perform a bone graft prior to implant placement.
Do implants hurt?
Dental implants require surgery, performed by a local implant specialist. You will typically receive local anesthesia and sedation, so you should experience little discomfort during the procedure itself. You should, however, expect some moderate inflammation for one to three days after the surgery. Most patients find that this discomfort is less than that following surgery for impacted teeth. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, such as acetaminophen, and codeine can both effectively reduce pain and swelling.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for a few days to avoid irritating your gums.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer enormous benefits, which is why they are rapidly growing in popularity. In fact, experts predict that 23% of the population will have dental implants by 2026. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved jawbone health: Your dental roots do more than support your teeth. They also give out important signals to your jawbone that stimulate bone tissue regeneration. When you are missing teeth, your jaw can quickly start to shrink. Implants, however, perform the same regenerative function. Therefore, they can prevent further tooth loss and the older, “sunken” appearance often associated with missing teeth.
- Stability: Implant-supported restorations are virtually as secure as natural teeth. Unlike older dentures, they will never slip out of place, and no adhesive is required.
- Natural appearance: Implant-supported restorations sit directly against your gums, and they are made from highly advanced, realistic materials. As a result, they are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
- Greater functionality: Thanks to the increased stability, implant-supported restorations function just like natural teeth. Once you have fully healed from surgery, you should be able to enjoy a full, unrestricted diet.
- Longevity: Dental implants have an astonishing 95% success rate. With proper care and maintenance, they can last 20 years or longer. Some patients enjoy fully restored smiles for life after their implant placement.
Contact an Implant Dentist Today
Still have questions about dental implants? Our team is always happy to answer questions and address your concerns. Contact us online or give us a call at 580-255-4880. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we proudly serve patients in Duncan, OK, and the nearby communities.
