Are Dental Implants the Right Choice for You?

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are made up of a piece of metal and crown that are inserted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Implants can be done for multiple missing teeth or just a singular tooth. These implants are natural-looking, resistant to cavities, long-lasting, and hassle-free. They look and feel just like regular teeth.

Because of their natural look, they allow you to keep your face shape and smile the same, whereas other tooth replacement options may impact these more. Other teeth you have will not be affected by dental implants—unlike other options like dental bridges.

When are Implants a Good Idea?

If you have a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, or you have issues with rotting teeth, it’s time to consider dental implants. No matter your reason for missing teeth—if you have a healthy jaw, dental implants are likely the most natural-looking and feeling option. There are, of course, other options for tooth replacement. In some cases, dentures are a simple and cheap option—but dentures can cause discomfort, sores on gums, and even gagging.

Because implants are placed directly into the jawbone, they are a comfortable and natural feeling option. There is no concern that the implant could move or fall out. Implants essentially act like regular teeth—with brushing and flossing, they can last a lifetime.

To have dental implant surgery, you will need to be in good general health. No matter your age, your health needs to be able to handle the surgery.

What Does the Process Look Like?

The process of dental implants does require oral surgery. Implants need to be surgically placed in the jawbone. After the implants are placed, the jawbone may need time to heal. The bone around the implant needs to go through a process call osteointegration—which means “combines with bones.” How the jawbone heals and how long it takes will be up to the patient. Some patients require months of healing to ensure the implant and bone are strong enough to support the crown. Others will be able to have implants and crowns placed in the same day.

The crowns used will be customized to fit your mouth. It will be based on size, shape, color, and fit, designed to fit your mouth specifically.

If you think you may benefit from dental implants, come see us at Oral and Facial Surgery of Utah. We’ll evaluate your situation, ensure that you can handle the surgery and that implants are a good idea for you before moving forward. Come see us for a consultation!  Have a natural-looking and feeling teeth in no time.