If you’re looking for a fuller smile or a replacement for missing or failing teeth, dental implants could be exactly what you need. But what exactly are dental implants and how do they work? And are they always the right solution for your dental problems?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants function like artificial teeth. During a dental implant procedure, your dentist will drill into your jawbone and insert a titanium post, which will then serve as the support structure. The dentist will then install an artificial implant that looks, feels, and functions like a tooth.
For all intents and purposes, this is as good as replacing a tooth with a new one; you won’t be able to tell much of a difference between this tooth and your old tooth, people looking at you won’t be able to tell the difference between your dental implant and your real teeth, and you should have no loss of function in your daily life.
You can get dental implants at a wide variety of locations. Most modern dentists offer dental implants as one of their core services. For example, you can get dental implants in Arlington TX or just about anywhere else in the United States.
Depending on your reasoning for getting dental implants in Jefferson Park and the nature of your dental insurance, dental implants may or may not be covered by your insurance company. Price will also vary depending on the services you receive and your current dental condition.
Common Reasons for Getting Dental Implants
People choose to get dental implants for a variety of reasons, including:
· Missing teeth. Some people choose to get dental implants simply to replace missing teeth. They may have had a tooth pulled many years ago, where they may have a chipped tooth that they don’t like this sight of. Most people don’t enjoy having missing teeth in their mouth; it may feel weird, it may interfere with their ability to eat and speak normally, and it may make people look at them in a different light. For all these reasons and more, people are often motivated to replace their missing teeth with dental implants.
· Unwanted dentures. One common option for people who have lost multiple teeth is dentures. However, dentures come with a number of other potential problems. Dentures don’t always stay in place very well, they don’t always have a perfect fit, and they can be a pain to take care of. That’s why many people who have had dentures and don’t like them end up getting dental implants instead.
· Speech improvement. If you have missing teeth, or if your mouth is misshapen in some way, you may have difficulty speaking articulately or comfortably. Many people find improvements to their speech once they have dental implants installed.
Other Things to Consider Before Getting Dental Implants
There are some other things you’ll need to keep in mind before you opt for dental implants.
· Money. Dental implants may be expensive, especially if they’re not covered by your insurance policy. Prices do vary depending on where you get them and what level of service you get, so make sure you budget ahead of time and shop around before choosing a provider to work with.
· Jawbone condition. Not everyone will qualify for dental implants. One of the prerequisites for getting dental implants is having a titanium post secured in your jawbone. If your jawbone isn’t healthy, or if it’s not shaped adequately, dentists may not be willing to provide you with these dental implants.
· Bone healing speed. Also think about how long it’s going to take your bones to recover from this surgery. Older adults and people with pre-existing conditions related to bone health may have more difficulty recovering from dental implant surgery.
· General oral health. What is your general oral health like? If you have a variety of oral health problems, dental implants may be a lower priority for you. If your mouth is already in good condition, dental implants can take priority.
· Tobacco use. Dentists often advise against dental implants for chronic tobacco users. Tobacco use can hurt your oral health and result in complications for your dental implants.
· Time to recover. It can take a long time to recover from dental implant surgery. You may be out for several weeks, with intermittent pain or discomfort in the meantime. Are you prepared for this recovery period?
Dental implants aren’t for every patient, but if you’re missing teeth, you don’t like dentures, and you want a big, healthy smile, dental implants could be the perfect choice for you. Talk to your dentist about the possibility of dental implants and make sure you do your research before you make any final decisions.
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