What You Need to Know before Considering Dental Implants

Dental implants are a wonderful way to restore missing teeth and give you back the smile you once had. They are a permanent solution for missing teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care. 

However, there are many things to consider before getting dental implants, such as cost, the procedure itself, recovery time, and potential risks. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dental implants for a better understanding of the process.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. The posts act as a root system for the replacement teeth, and over time, the jawbone grows around the post to hold it in place. Implants can be used to replace one or several teeth and are an excellent option for people who are missing teeth due to injury, disease, or decay.

What are the Types of Implants?

There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are the most common type and are placed directly into the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone and are typically used for people who don’t have enough bone in the jaw to support an endosteal implant.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people who are missing teeth are candidates for dental implants, though there are certain criteria that must be met. For example, the patient must be healthy enough to undergo surgery and have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. The patient’s overall health and dental hygiene habits also need to be evaluated before they’re considered a good candidate.

What’s the Procedure Like?

The implant procedure is typically done in two stages. 

The first stage involves placing the titanium posts in the jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure. 

The second stage involves placing the artificial teeth onto the posts. This can be done several months after the posts have been implanted, allowing time for the jawbone to heal.

What Are the Benefits?

Dental implants offer several benefits over other tooth-replacement solutions such as dentures. They look and feel more natural, and since they’re securely attached to the jawbone, you don’t have to worry about them slipping or shifting like you would with dentures. 

They also don’t require the same level of maintenance as dentures, and can last for decades with proper care.

What Are the Potential Risks?

Like any procedure there are risks for dental implants as well. The most common risks associated with dental implants are infection, nerve damage, and damage to the surrounding teeth. It’s important to discuss any potential risks with your dentist before getting the procedure.

What’s the Cost?

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of material used, and the complexity of the procedure. In general, dental implants are more expensive than other tooth-replacement solutions, but they are well worth the cost due to their durability and longevity.

Aftercare

It is important to take good care of your dental implants to ensure they last a lifetime. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. Additionally, you should avoid eating hard foods that can damage the implant or your natural teeth.

Dental implant surgery is a safe and reliable procedure that can help replace missing teeth and restore the functionality of your smile. It is important to make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure and that you discuss all potential risks and benefits with your dentist. 

Furthermore, it is important to take good care of the implant to ensure its long-term success. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, providing a secure and stable replacement for missing teeth.

Are you looking for a reliable and experienced dental provider in Seattle for your dental implant needs? Look no further than Brush Dental! From single-tooth dental implants to full-mouth reconstructions, we have the expertise and experience to meet your needs. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. Schedule your appointment today!