Dental Implants: The Permanent Solution For Missing Teeth

Dentist in San Juan Capistrano

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By Ortega Cottage Dentistry

Do you struggle with missing teeth? It can be embarrassing to smile or speak in public, and dental implants may be the solution. Dental Implants are a permanent solution for those who have lost their natural teeth due to decay or injury. This procedure involves placing titanium dental implants into the jawbone, which acts as a bridge between the existing teeth. The result is dental implants that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants provide numerous benefits compared to other dental solutions such as dentures or bridges. These include:

Increased confidence in smiling and speaking in public

Improved ability to chew food without pain or discomfort

More natural appearance and improved dental aesthetics

Enhanced durability—dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care

Bone preservation—implants help preserve the integrity of the facial structure by preventing bone loss due to missing teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants come in two types—endosteal and subperiosteal dental implants. Endosteal dental implants are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone, while subperiosteal dental implants involve placing a metal frame onto the jawbone beneath the gum line. Both dental implant types result in a tooth that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. Depending on your dental health and lifestyle needs, a dental implant may be more suitable for you than another.

Risks & Complications

Although dental implants are generally considered safe and have a high success rate, there are some risks associated with this procedure. These include dental implant failure, surgical complications such as infection and nerve damage, and dental implant rejection. It’s important to discuss these risks with your dental professional before undergoing dental implants so that you are aware of what to expect.

FAQs

1. How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, including regular dental check-ups and brushing/flossing twice daily.

2. Are dental implants painful?

The procedure is generally not particularly painful, but some people may experience mild discomfort. Your dentist will provide pain medication if necessary.

3. Is there an age limit for dental implants?

Dental implants have no age limit, but a patient must have healthy gums and adequate bone structure to undergo the dental implant procedure.

Summary

Dental implants are a safe, effective solution for restoring full dental function after missing teeth. They provide numerous benefits over other dental solutions such as dentures or bridges, including increased confidence in smiling and speaking in public, improved ability to chew food without pain or discomfort, more natural appearance and improved dental aesthetics, enhanced durability, and bone preservation. It’s important to discuss any risks with your dental professional before undergoing dental implants so that you are aware of what to expect.