Dental Implants

Dental implants are posts surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone. They replace one or more teeth that are next to each other. Implants are an effective way to replace missing natural teeth. When teeth are lost because of disease or an accident, dental implants may be a good option. You may want to choose dental implants if:

• you hide your smile because you have missing teeth
• your dentures are not comfortable
• you are not happy with your removable partial dentures
• you do not have or do not want your other teeth to anchor a bridge restoration

People may choose implants to replace a single tooth, more than one tooth, or to support a full set of dentures.

Dental implants are made of titanium (a strong, lightweight metal) and other materials. Millions of implants are placed by dentists every year in the United States, which makes them a very common and popular option for replacing teeth.

• Implants won't slip or shift in your mouth. This is very important for eating and speaking normally.
• Implants feel more natural than removable partial or conventional complete dentures because of their secure fit.
• A single tooth implant is a stand-alone unit and doesn't involve treating the teeth next to it.
• Implants help to preserve the bone after teeth are lost or removed.
• Implants are a good value. They may seem like a more expensive option at first, but they can last a lifetime if you take good care of them.

If you are missing one or more teeth, there are many reasons why you should replace them:

• You may not like how the gap looks when you smile.
• Missing teeth may affect how you speak.
• A missing back tooth (molar) can make it harder to chew.
• When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the teeth around it can shift. Shifting teeth can affect how you bite and chew.
• Bone loss may occur in the area around the missing tooth or teeth. This may cause the remaining teeth to become loose over time.
• Loss of teeth and bone can make your face sag. You may look older.

A single tooth implant replaces the missing tooth's roots. It is a stand-alone unit and does not involve treating the teeth next to it.

An implant-supported bridge replaces the lost natural teeth and some of the tooth roots when more than one tooth is missing. Unlike traditional bridges, an implant-supported bridge does not need support from the teeth next to it.

If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported denture can replace the missing teeth and some of the tooth roots. Because the bone in your jaw actually grows around the implants, an implant-supported denture tends to be comfortable and stable. This allows you to bite and chew naturally.

If you are in good general health and your jaw can support an implant, this treatment may be a good option for you. Your health is more important than your age.

However, implants are not an option for everyone. Patients should be in good health or cleared by their physicians before scheduling any implant surgery. They should have enough jawbone to support the implant or be able to have surgery to build up the jawbone. Bone can be built up with a bone graft or with sinus lift surgery.

Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and leukemia, may slow healing after surgery. Implant treatment may not be a good option for patients with these illnesses. Tobacco use also can slow the healing process.

If your dentist does recommend implant treatment, careful oral hygiene is essential for the success of the implant. You must spend time caring for the implant and making sure the area around it is very clean. If not, you might increase your risk for gum disease, which can weaken the bone and tissues needed to support the implant.

You should discuss implant treatment carefully with your dentist. Dental implant treatment can take longer and cost more than other replacement options. But dental implants are often a good value because they can last a lifetime.

Regular dental visits are key to the long-term success of your implant. Your dentist will set up a program to help you keep your implant and natural teeth healthy.

Your dentist also will suggest a home-care routine that meets your needs. It will include brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. You also may be advised to use a special toothbrush or mouthrinse to help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Talk with your dentist about dental implants. He or she can help you decide if implant treatment is right for you. With careful treatment planning and good oral care, dental implants can provide a healthy smile for a lifetime.