Understanding the Process of Dental Implants and How They Can Improve Oral Health

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is an alternative to a bridge, dentures or another device used to replace lost or damaged teeth. Dental implants are fused to your jawbone, replacing both the chewing surface of the tooth and its root. 

Each dental implant consists of three parts: the implant itself, the abutment and the crown. The implant is similar to a screw and is designed to replace the tooth’s root. The abutment is placed on top of the implant as a connector, which attaches the crown. 

Benefits of dental implants 

Dental implants offer a number of benefits to patients that make them an ideal choice. Some of these benefits include:

• Preserved jawbone - When you lose a tooth, your jawbone begins to deteriorate. Using dentures or a bridge to replace the lost tooth does not preserve this bone. However, using a dental implant stops the bone from deteriorating and maintains the structure of your jaw.
• No need to harm other teeth - When placing a bridge, dentists must reduce the teeth on either side to hold the crowns that keep the device in place. Dental implants do not require the dentist to make changes to surrounding teeth. 
• Better comfort - Dental implants are comfortable and won’t hurt your gums, fall out of your mouth or cause any of the problems associated with dentures. 
• Less maintenance required - No other solution will last as long as dental implants. Bridges and dentures must eventually be replaced and are more prone to breaks. Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent. 

Should I get dental implants?

Dental implants are a possibility for most patients with missing or damaged teeth. However, they may not be the best choice for everyone. Successful dental implants require an adequate amount of jawbone. If your jawbone has already begun to deteriorate, you may need a bone graft before you can have the implant procedure. Anyone who wants to get dental implants must be healthy enough to undergo oral surgery. 

Dental implants offer many benefits for patients. Although they are more expensive than alternatives, they require less maintenance and are better for your oral health. If you are interested in dental implants, the first step is to make an appointment with a dentist who has experience with this procedure. 

Rifkin Dental is proud to offer dental implants to our patients. Please call us today to schedule your appointment. You can also request an appointment online.