Dental Implants: Advantages, Surgery, Risks, and Insurance Questions
Many people suffer from tooth loss issues despite of improvements in dental care solutions. You may lose your teeth due to decay, injury or many other periodontal diseases. But don’t worry anymore because dental implants are there for you.
It’s a type of restorative dental procedure used to replace missing teeth by surgically inserting artificial tooth roots into the jawbone. These implants provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth, which can be in the form of crowns, bridges, or dentures. Let’s discuss about it in detail.
What are the Advantages of Having Dental Implants?
Implants offer several advantages compared to other tooth replacement options. Here are some of the primary benefits:
- Natural Appearance and Functionality: Teeth implants are designed to closely mimic the look and feel of your natural teeth. Your dentist will customise them to match the colour, shape, and size of your existing teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural smile. They also provide excellent chewing and biting functionality, allowing you to eat different foods without discomfort.
- Longevity: Implants have the potential to last a lifetime. This makes them one of the most durable options for tooth replacement.
- Bone Health: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Tooth implant integrates with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which helps to preserve bone density and structure.
- Improved Speech: Ill-fitting dentures or missing teeth can cause slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly. Implant service eliminates these issues, allowing you to have natural speech patterns.
- Comfort: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are fixed in place and become a part of your mouth. This eliminates the discomfort and potential sore spots that can occur with dentures.
- Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: Traditional dental bridges often require the adjacent teeth to be ground down to support the bridge. But implants do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support, preserving their natural structure.
- Easy Maintenance: You can care for your implants like your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are all that’s required to maintain their health.
- Improved Self-Confidence: It provides a permanent solution to missing teeth, which can boost your self-esteem and confidence. You won’t have to worry about your teeth slipping or falling out, which can be a concern with removable dentures.
- No Dietary Restrictions: Since implants offer strong chewing capabilities, you can enjoy a diverse range of foods without worrying about damaging your replacement teeth.
- Stability: Dental implants are surgically anchored into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. This stability contributes to better oral function and comfort.
- Aesthetics: Implants can improve your smile’s overall appearance. They fill in gaps caused by missing teeth, enhancing facial aesthetics and symmetry.
The eligibility for dental implants depends on factors like your overall health, bone density, and gum health. Consulting with a qualified dentist is essential to determine if this restorative dental procedure is the right choice for your specific case.
Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
Generally, individuals with good oral and overall health are more likely to be successful candidates. A sufficient amount of healthy jawbone is necessary to support the implant through the osseointegration process. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders, might impact the success of the procedure.
Smoking can hinder the healing process. A thorough assessment by a qualified dentist is crucial to determine your eligibility for dental implants. They will consider various factors to provide personalised recommendations and alternatives if implants are not suitable.
How Successful Are Dental Implants?
Teeth implants have proven to be remarkably successful in restoring both the function and aesthetics of missing teeth. These are one of the most reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement options available. The key to their success lies in the process of osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone. It creates a stable and durable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
This integration ensures that implants function much like natural teeth, providing comfortable chewing, speaking, and smiling. However, individual success can depend on factors such as oral hygiene, overall health, and proper post-operative care. You can consult a skilled dentist to determine the suitability of this service in your case.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental Implants?
The coverage varies depending on factors such as the specific insurance plan, the reason for tooth loss, and the terms of coverage. Some medical insurance plans might provide coverage for dental implants if tooth loss is due to a medical condition or accident.
Some plans might partially cover implants if they are deemed necessary for functional reasons. Dental discount plans or supplemental coverage options might offer alternatives for reducing costs. Therefore, it’s vital to review your insurance policy carefully. You can consult with your dentist and communicate with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage.
What is Involved in a Dental Implant Procedure?
The implant procedure typically involves these steps:
- Step 1: Consultation and Planning
The process begins with a thorough examination of your oral health, including X-rays or scans to assess bone density and structure. A treatment plan is created, outlining the number and placement of implants required.
- Step 2: Implant Placement
Under local anaesthesia or sedation, the dental implant, usually made of titanium, is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The gum is then stitched over the implant, allowing it to integrate with the bone through osseointegration over a few months.
- Step 3: Abutment Attachment
After osseointegration, an abutment is placed on the implant. This small connector extends above the gumline and provides support for the prosthetic tooth. It may take a couple of weeks for the gum to heal around the abutment.
- Step 4: Prosthetic Placement
Once the gums have healed, a custom-made prosthetic tooth (crown) is attached to the abutment. The crown is designed to match your natural teeth in colour, shape, and size, restoring your smile’s appearance and function.
Our dentist will guide you, ensure your comfort, and provide instructions for aftercare and regular check-ups. It will help to maintain the health and longevity of your dental implant.
Contact Us
At Dentistry on Solent, our dedicated team of skilled professionals offers exceptional care to restore your smile with precision and artistry. Whether you’re considering single implants, implant-supported bridges, or implant-retained dentures, our experienced dentists will guide you through the process with personalised attention and the latest in dental technology. Contact our professional dentist team at Bella Vista and schedule a consultation.
