If you have missing teeth or are looking for a long-term solution to replace a tooth, then dental implants might be your answer. Dental implants have become an increasingly popular option for people who want to restore their smile and improve their oral health.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about dental implants, including what they are, how they work, their benefits and drawbacks, and the process of getting them. So, whether you’re a curious reader or someone who’s considering dental implants, this blog is for you.
What are Dental Implants?
A type of dental restoration known as dental implants is used to replace lost or broken teeth. They are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable base for a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Once the implants are securely fused to the jawbone, they can support a variety of dental prostheses to restore the appearance, function, and health of the mouth.
Types of Dental Implants
Based on the Material:
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are titanium or other metal rods or screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They serve as a base for a prosthetic tooth, bridge, or denture. Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are the most successful and longest-lasting type of dental implant.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal dental implants are a type of dental implant in which the implant is placed beneath the gum line and on top of the jawbone. The implant subperiosteal consists of a metal frame customised to the jawbone shape and then filled with bone material to secure it in place.
Once in place, the implant supports a prosthetic tooth, bridge, or denture. Subperiosteal implants are a good option for people who have lost bone due to periodontal disease or may not have enough for a traditional implant.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic dental implants are a specialised type of dental implant that are used to support prosthetic teeth in cases where the patient lacks adequate bone structure in the upper jaw area to support traditional dental implants.
Based on Procedure
Full Mouth Implant
Full mouth implant-supported restorations are a permanent, long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, replacing dentures, and stabilising the bite. They involve placing four to eight dental implants in the jaw and attaching them to a set of replacement teeth. This option is ideal for patients who are missing teeth and looking for a permanent, natural-looking solution.
Single Tooth Implant
A single-tooth implant is a dental procedure in which a single artificial tooth root is implanted into the jawbone and topped with a prosthetic tooth. The implant is made of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone, which integrates with the bone and becomes a permanent part of the jaw.
All On Four Implants
All-on-four dental implant treatment is a specialised type of dental implant procedure that can replace a full arch of missing teeth with four dental implants. The procedure involves placing four implants into the patient’s jawbone and then attaching a full arch of replacement teeth to the implants.
All On 6 Dental Implants
The cost of 6 dental implants can vary greatly depending on where you are located and what type of implants you are getting.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants replace natural tooth roots with artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials. Here are the steps involved in the dental implant process:
Initial Consultation
During the first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, take X-rays, and evaluate your overall oral health. They will also discuss your medical history, medications you are taking, and any other factors that may affect your ability to receive dental implants.
Implant Placement
During the implant placement procedure, your dentist will use local anaesthesia to numb the area where the implant will be placed. They will then make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone and drill a small hole into the bone. The implant is then placed into the hole and covered with a protective cap or a temporary crown.
Osseointegration
Over the next several months, the implant will fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This critical step allows the implant to become a stable and long-lasting support for dental prostheses.
Abutment placement
Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, minor surgery is done to expose the top of the implant and attach the abutment. The abutment connects the implant to the dental prostheses, such as a crown or a bridge.
Dental Prostheses Placement
The final step is to attach the dental prostheses to the abutment. The prostheses are custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth, and they are securely attached to the implant to provide a stable and functional replacement for your missing tooth or teeth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. Here are some of the key benefits of dental implants:
Improved Appearance
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, and they can be custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. This makes them a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing option for replacing missing or damaged teeth.
Better Oral Health
Dental implants do not require the removal of any healthy tooth structure, unlike dental bridges. They also stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss, which can occur when teeth are missing for an extended period.
Improved Speech and Eating Ability
Dental implants are anchored securely into the jawbone, which allows for improved speech and eating ability. Dental implants allow you to eat your favourite foods and speak confidently without worrying about your teeth moving or shifting.
Long-lasting
Dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years, often a lifetime.
In conclusion, the numerous pros and cons of implants make them a remarkable solution for restoring smiles, improving oral health, and enhancing overall quality of life.
Risks and Complications
While dental implants are generally safe and well-tolerated by patients, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications to be aware of. These can include:
- Infection:Infection is a risk associated with any surgical procedure. If an infection occurs, it can cause the implant to fail, which may need to be removed.
- Damage to Surrounding Structures: During the implant placement procedure, there is a risk of damaging surrounding structures such as nerves, blood vessels, or nearby teeth.
- Peri-implantitis: Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition that can occur around dental implants. The accumulation of plaque and bacteria causes it around the implant, leading to bone loss and implant failure.
- Nerve Damage: Nerve damage can occur during the implant placement procedure, leading to numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or cheeks.
- Sinus Problems: If implants are placed in the upper jaw, they may protrude into the sinus cavity, leading to sinus problems such as sinusitis.
The Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the location, the case’s complexity, and the dentist’s experience. However, it’s important to note that additional charges may be involved, such as the cost of the abutment, crown, and any necessary imaging or consultations. The cost of dental implants in the UK can also vary depending on whether they are performed privately or through the National Health Service (NHS). It’s best to consult with a dentist for an accurate estimate of the cost of a dental implant for your specific case in the UK.
Conclusion
Dental implants are a reliable, long-lasting, and natural-looking solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. They work by replacing natural tooth roots with artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, and they offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. Dental implants can improve your appearance, oral health, speech, and eating ability, and they are a convenient and comfortable option for tooth replacement.
Schedule your dental implant consultation today with Complete Smiles.
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