If you have lost a tooth, then you know there are a lot of options for handling tooth replacement. Each option has its own benefits and risks, and it can feel like a lot of information to take in during your initial consultation with your Burbank dentist. To help you understand one of the most commonly suggested options, we’ve put together this brief guide on top dental implant facts to help you better understand what they are, what they do, and why they’re probably your best choice for tooth replacement.
Top Dental Implant Facts
Dental Implants Are Permanent
As long as everything goes to plan, as it does about 95% of the time, your dental implant is a permanent solution. The only part that you will have to replace is the crown.
The crown is the uppermost part of the implant that replicates the tooth you would normally see above the gumline. The crown isn’t quite as sturdy as a natural tooth, so it wears down slightly faster. Even so, you will typically only need to replace the crown every 15 years as long as you follow a robust oral hygiene routine.
Dental Implants Replicate Your Natural Teeth
A dental implant is the best option for fully replacing your natural tooth because the structure continues below the gum line and into the jaw. You see, a dental implant is made up of three parts.
The post is placed into your jawbone, providing unbeatable stability. The abutment acts as a connection between the post and the crown. The crown is usually made of porcelain. It is the part you see above the gum line, and it looks and acts exactly like a natural tooth.
Dental Implants Are Better for Your Long-term Health
Other tooth replacement options are great for replicating the appearance of teeth and maintaining your ability to talk and chew normally. However, they all have one serious flaw. No other tooth-replacement option helps to maintain the health of your jaw.
Dental implants are drilled directly into the jaw. This connection between the new tooth and the jawbone encourages the bone to remodel normally in response to daily activities like chewing. That keeps the jawbone strong and healthy. Without that connection, the affected portion of the jaw will atrophy over time contributing to facial sagging and changing facial structure.
Dental Implant Surgery Is Predictable and Safe
Hearing about dental implant surgery can be scary at first. It’s a multi-step process that requires a bit of patience to complete. However, it is also a very well-known procedure that is both predictable and safe.
If you have any misgivings, you can always talk to your oral surgeon or dentist about what the procedure entails. Looking at the data and noting the rarity of serious complications can also be helpful if you’re a bit nervous about moving forward.
Dental Implants Can Be Used in Coordination with Other Replacement Options
Dental implants aren’t just for replacing one tooth. You can, of course, take that approach, but you may consider a hybrid option if you need to replace a number of teeth in a row.
For people missing between three and five teeth in a row, dental implants can actually be used on either side to support a dental bridge. This option gives the bridge the support of dental implants without putting strain on your natural teeth. As a result, dental implants are a versatile part of tooth replacement.
Deciding if Dental Implants Are Right for You
If you’re considering getting dental implants in Burbank, then you should talk to your dentist at Coastland Dental. Based on your medical history and current status, they’ll be able to help you determine if dental implants are right for you.