Dental Implants Questions Answered

In the past, losing a tooth or teeth, the options for replacement had many negative drawbacks. Dentures and dental bridges were the main options to replace those missing teeth. Modern dentistry has developed another alternative in dental implants. But which is the right choice for your smile? Below are five questions and answers about dental implants to help you make the right decision.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium rod placed in the bone to offer a long-lasting structure to rebuild your smile. A dental implant consists of three different parts:

• a screw-like post usually made of titanium that is placed directly into the bone
• a post extension that comes out of the post
• an artificial tooth (dental crown) 

The post is implanted into the jawbone. The post needs sufficient time to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone. The extension attaches to the top of the post, and the crown goes over the extension. The result is a natural-looking addition to your smile that holds firmly, restoring biting, chewing, and speech functions.

Are there Other Options?

A dental bridge is another preferred option for replacing single or multiple teeth. The two surrounding teeth will have natural tooth structure removed to allow for a bridge, and the bridge (artificial teeth) will be inserted over the top of the prepared teeth.

The major advantage of a dental implant is that the surrounding teeth are not damaged. 

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Implants help the jawbone maintain the level and health of bone. Because you have lost a tooth, the bone around the lost tooth will begin to resorb. As the implant inserts directly into the jaw, bone growth is stimulated and retains a healthy density. Dentures or bridges don’t halt bone loss. Maintaining bone density is vital to look and feel younger.

Another benefit of dental implants is that oral hygiene remains the same as before, with no special tools needed, with brushing and flossing performed as usual.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

Poor dental hygiene maintenance can lead to a dental infection around the implant, known as peri-implantitis—the disease damages surrounding tissue and bone, ultimately causing the implant to fail. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional dental cleanings will help to prevent peri-implantitis infections.

Another potential setback for some patients with dental implants is the time it takes to complete. As an implant happens in three stages — post, extension, and crown — it takes roughly five to eight months to complete. The slowest phase is the initial one, where bone growth around the implant will occur slowly to ensure the long-term success of your new dental implant.  

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Typically most pain and discomfort are managed with over-the-counter pain medications. 

Tired of Gaps In Your Smile?

Dental implants are the ideal option for just about anyone’s smile. You and your dentist can decide the right choice to restore and enhance your smile together. One thing is for sure your quality of life will increase with dental implants.

“Better Smile, Better Life!”

Contact Marielaina Perrone, DDS, at (702) 458-2929 to schedule a no-cost cosmetic consultation appointment if you are ready for a smile makeover. We cannot wait to help you with your oral health and your smile makeover to create the smile of your dreams in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV.