Dental implants were first introduced in 1952 by renowned Swedish orthopedic surgeon Per-Ingvar Branemark. Since then, it has evolved into one of the best and most trusted options for replacing missing teeth. Over the years, dental implants have also become the standard of care for patients with lost or missing teeth.
However, while tooth implants have been used for many years now, many are still clueless when it comes to the ins and outs of the procedure. For instance, many people are not even aware if they are good candidates for the procedure or how much tooth implant costs.
Dental Implants: What to Know Before Getting One
Simply put, a dental implant is a surgical fixture that is placed in the jawbone of the patient. It will be allowed to fuse the bone over a few months. It will also act as a replacement for the missing tooth’s root. The artificial tooth will also act as a replacement tooth or bridge.
Allowing the dental implant to fuse with the bone successfully is the closest thing to mimicking the natural tooth. The fusion process is called osseointegration. Dental implants are designed to be able to stand on their own without affecting any of the teeth nearby. Dental implants are also known to be very sturdy.
Dental implants are typically made of titanium as it can fuse with the bone effectively. Also, since it is not seen as a foreign object by the body, it can fuse with the bone without any issues. Over the years, technology and science has evolved significantly and has helped ensure dental implant outcomes as exceptional.
Dental Implants: All the Basics You Need to Know
Dental implants can be used to replace one or several teeth. One of the primary goals of the procedure is to enhance aesthetics and restore function. There are three possible options when it comes to tooth replacement.
- Fixed or cemented dental bridge
- Removal dental appliance (complete or partial dentures)
- Tooth implants
Of the options, dentures are considered the most affordable. However, they are also the least preferred because of the discomfort and inconvenience it sometimes brings. In addition, dentures may also affect one’s taste and sensory experience with food.
On the other hand, dental bridgework is deemed one of the most prevalent restorative options until dental implants were introduced. However, one of the biggest disadvantages of bridgework is the dependence on the natural teeth for support.
Dental implants are supported by the bone and will not in any way affect any of the nearby natural teeth. Picking the best option for your case will depend on several factors. For instance, the following factors might be considered:
- Cost
- The health of the patient
- The preference of the patient
- Cost of the procedure
- Quantity and quality of the jawbone
- Location of the missing tooth (or teeth)
Your dental surgeon will examine the areas where the implant will be situated and will make an assessment if you are a good candidate for the dental implant procedure or not. Dental implants however offer a lot of enticing benefits compared to the other options.
For starters, they can be used to replace missing teeth without altering or affecting any of the natural teeth nearby. Moreover, since dental implants will fuse with the bone structure, they would feel and function like the natural teeth. The replacement teeth will also be designed to look like the natural teeth so they are not recognizable.
However, dental implants are typically not covered by insurance since it is still considered an elective procedure even if it is now deemed the best restoration option for those who are missing a tooth or more.
