Have you been told recently that you may need dentures? If so, then you should know that there are alternatives to dentures--alternatives that look more natural and that don't have to be taken out every night. These alternatives are known as dental implants. However, there are strict requirements that you must meet in order to qualify for these implants. If you want to know more about what dental implants are and how they work, as well as whether or not you are a good candidate for them, keep reading.
Dental Implants: An Overview
Dental implants are essentially replacements for the roots of your teeth. They are built to be quite strong and durable, and they look as close to your natural teeth as possible, so no one will even know that you have the implants unless you choose to tell them. Many people choose dental implants because there are less restrictions associated with them. For instance, with dentures, there are several foods you can't eat because they can cause pain and cause false teeth to fall out. However, with dental implants there are very minimal restrictions, and in some cases, none at all. Depending on how many implants you need, prices can vary, but the cost for many dental implant procedures is about $4,000.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Now that you have a basic understanding of dental implants and some of their benefits and costs, you should also understand how they work. When you go in for this procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will first create a special plan for you based on your oral health history. After the plan is created and you give the surgeon the go-ahead, he or she will create the implant roots and insert them into the existing sockets of your missing teeth. These insertions create a new root in the jawbone.
After the implant root itself is placed, your mouth will heal within a period of several weeks to several months, depending on your current health condition. During the healing process, you'll schedule several routine appointments at a place like Prospect Periodontal & Implant Center to monitor your condition. When the dentist is convinced that you are healed, a small connector will be placed over the implant, and a single replacement tooth, bridge, or dentures will be added as necessary.
Who is A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
While many people have considered getting dental implants, you need to be someone with relatively good health and someone who heals naturally and easily without major complications. You also must have great oral health and be committed to brushing and flossing your teeth every day. You should have good bone density as well, because your jawbone will need to support the implant once it is installed. Your dentist, periodontist, or oral surgeon will help you determine whether or not this procedure is a good choice for you.
Dental implants are great alternatives to dentures because they look more natural and don't require daily removal and reinsertion, but they are not necessarily the best choice for everyone. If you review the information outlined in this guide, you should be able to decide for yourself whether this is something you want to pursue, and whether or not you qualify for this in the first place.
Share26 November 2014
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