Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jaw by means of a titanium screw. They can hold a replacement tooth, support a crown, bridge or dentures. They are suitable for a person who may be congenitally missing or has lost teeth due to periodontal disease or injury. These devices have been widely used since the mid-1960s, but have gained tremendous popularity in recent years because of their versatility and proven success rate.
Are They Safe?
Dental Implants are considered highly safe for adults! They are made of bio-compatible materials, so the living tissue in the body doesn’t typically perceive the new addition as foreign or toxic. In addition, because the appliance is fixed into the jawbone, it naturally integrates over time. Large, open spaces in the mouth can deteriorate any existing bone, creating weakness and instability. In fact, implant therapy is the only dental restoration procedure that stimulates bone growth and prevents future loss.
Implants vs. Dentures and Bridges
Implants are the optimal choice when searching for the next best thing to normal teeth, as they look, feel, fit and function like natural dentition. While they may need an occasional adjustment, they are built to last a lifetime. Because they are fixed into place, they also retain the natural shape of the face and smile, unlike dentures and bridges, which can, over time, cause the face to appear sunken. Caring for an implant is also much simpler than removable appliances, as the patient simply brushes and flosses as normal.
Who Can Receive Treatment?
Implant therapy can be safely utilized by a variety of men and women in many different life stages; however, it is not recommended for patients under the age of 18, as bone tissue is not yet fully developed. A healthy dental and periodontal state is, of course, required. Patients who smoke or drink alcohol heavily, suffer from uncontrolled diabetes or cancer, or have had radiation performed on the jaw may not be considered candidates, as bone density may be affected by these factors, increasing the likelihood of implant failure.
What About the Cost?
A dental implant is a customized apparatus, made to become a part of your everyday life. No two implants are the same shape, size, fit or color, so the costs will be as customized to you as the replacement tooth itself. Any price range given by a prosthodontist will also be determined by the number of teeth that are to be replaced. As it is becoming an increasingly favored treatment option, more insurance companies have begun to add this to their existing dental coverage plans, providing financial assistance to patients considering this extraordinary care option.