Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth and can be a permanent solution for tooth loss. If you are missing one or more teeth and are considering dental implants, this article will provide you with information about what they are, how they work, and whether or not you could be a good candidate for them.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that act as replacements for natural teeth. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and fuse with the surrounding bone to provide a secure foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. Implants are made of a biocompatible material, like titanium, which allows them to fuse with the jawbone and remain in place for many years.
Implants look and feel like natural teeth and can provide an attractive, long-lasting smile. They help preserve the integrity of your jawbone by providing stimulation to the area where the implant is placed. This helps prevent bone loss and maintains facial structure.
Who Are Good Candidates For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, and they require certain requirements to be successful. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants, you must first meet the following criteria:
#1. Adequate Bone Density
For dental implants to be successful, the jawbone must have adequate structure and density. If you have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, you may need to undergo bone grafting procedures before being considered a good candidate for dental implants. The bone graft process helps restore the jawbone’s integrity by providing additional material to fuse with the implant.
#2. Healthy Gum Tissue
Your gum health is essential for dental implant success. You must have healthy, strong gum tissue to ensure that the implants are properly secured with the surrounding bone structure. If you have periodontal disease (gum disease), you may need to undergo treatment before being considered a good candidate for implants.
#3. Commitment to Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can be a major contributor to dental implant failure. You must brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist for regular checkups, and follow any other instructions (such as using an antimicrobial rinse) to keep your implants clean and healthy. In addition, if you are a heavy smoker, you must be willing to quit to maintain your implants’ health.
#4. Overall Health Condition
If you have any chronic medical conditions or take certain medications, these may impact your candidacy for dental implants. For instance, if you have uncontrolled diabetes, your body may not be able to heal properly after surgery, so you may need to work with your doctor to manage it before undergoing implant surgery.
#5. Financial Resources
Implants can be costly, and it is essential to consider your financial resources when determining whether or not they are the right option for you. In some cases, insurance may cover part of the cost, but you should check with your provider to determine exactly what is covered and if there are any out-of-pocket costs associated with the surgical procedure.
Overall, the best way to determine if you are a suitable candidate for implant treatment is to visit your dentist for an evaluation. Your dentist will be able to assess your overall oral health, the strength of your jawbone, and the amount of existing gum tissue. Depending on the results of your evaluation, your dentist may recommend additional procedures before you can be considered a good implant candidate.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Once it has been determined that you are a viable candidate for the implant procedure, your dentist will discuss the next steps of the procedure. This typically includes taking impressions of your teeth and jawbone to create a custom treatment plan. Your dentist may also suggest additional treatments such as bone grafting or sinus lifts to ensure that your implant posts are securely placed in the jawbone.
Once your treatment plan is finalized, the implant procedure can begin. Your dentist will surgically place small titanium posts into your jawbone to act as roots for the replacement teeth. Once the implant posts are surgically placed in the jawbone, your dentist will attach temporary abutment pieces and a temporary restoration.
The healing process for dental implants can take several months, and you will need to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care during this time. Once your jawbone has healed, and the implant posts are securely fused with the surrounding bone, you will return to your dentist for the final step of the implant procedure. Your dentist will attach permanent abutment pieces and crowns to the implanted posts in order to create beautiful, natural-looking replacement teeth.
How Much Does Dental Implant Surgery Cost?
The cost of dental implant placement varies depending on the complexity of your treatment plan and the type of materials used. On average, a single implant can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. Additional treatments, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, may also increase the total cost.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to provide a long-term solution to tooth loss. When cared for properly, dental implants can last a lifetime. However, the lifespan of implants depends on several factors, such as the quality of the materials used, the oral hygiene habits of the patient, and any underlying health conditions or medications that could impact healing. Generally speaking, with proper care and maintenance, most dental implants can last up to 15 years or more.
Schedule an Implant Consultation at Wheatland Dental Saskatoon Today!
Our team of experienced and highly skilled dentists is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care. We offer a wide range of implant services, including evaluations, surgical placement, and post-operative care. We understand that each patient has unique needs, so we work closely with you to create a tailored treatment plan that meets your individual goals.
If you are considering dental implants and would like to learn more about the procedure, contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation. During your appointment, our dentists will answer any questions you have about the implant process and give you an in-depth overview of what to expect during treatment. We will also discuss payment options to ensure that the cost of your implant treatment is within your budget.
