What is a Dental Implant?
Before we talk about the lifespan of dental implants, let’s delve into what they are and when they are used to restore a patient’s smile. A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that acts as a normal tooth. Its purpose is to replace one or multiple missing teeth in a patient’s mouth to restore the look and function of a patient’s smile. Dental implants can also help to improve and preserve their oral health once the treatment has been completed. Dental implants consist of three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. The abutment is a fixture with a titanium post that acts as a tooth’s root, which is screwed into the jawbone. The top of the implant is a prosthetic crown that resembles the patient’s teeth.
The main reasons why people opt for dental implants to restore their smiles are as follows:
Better Oral Health –
Facilitates and promotes good oral hygiene practices by filling gaps in the mouth. It should be noted that implants require the same oral hygiene practices as to natural teeth to keep them in good shape.
Improved Aesthetics –
Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, which can help a patient receiving them restore their confidence and share their smiles again.
Restore Speaking and Chewing Abilities –
Missing teeth can affect a person’s ability to articulate and chew effectively. Dental implants unlike dentures are surgically implanted into the jaw and provide stability when a patient is speaking, chewing, or sharing their smiles.
Bone Preservation –
The jawbone beneath the gap could begin to deteriorate over time. The dental implant provides a foundation and support to the bone in a patient’s jaw while restoring the function of the tooth or teeth that are missing.
Comfort –
They’re permanentand feel like a part of your mouth.Unlike removable dentures, when it’s in it doesn’t go anywhere.
Do Implants Last Long?
The dental implant is permanent but the crown (or prosthetic tooth) may wear down over time and need to be replaced about every 15 – 20 years. The jaw heals around the titanium screw, fusing with it and becoming a part of the jawbone. That process is called osseointegration. If cared for well, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Caring for Dental Implants to Ensure a Long Lifespan
Taking care of dental implants isn’t too different from regular oral hygiene practices:
1. Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Things that help maintain the condition of the implant include opting for less abrasive toothpastes and a softer bristle toothbrush.
2. Attending dental appointments regularly will ensure your oral health is in order which includes the same care and maintenance for your dental implants. The recommended period between appointments is six months (as per the Canadian Association of Dentistry). Without consulting a dentist in your area regularly, you leave yourself at risk for developing cavities and tooth decay and gum disease over time. This can lead to more invasive and pricier treatments.
3. Be mindful of what you eat. Sticky candies and hard foods have the potential to chip the crown and possibly dislodge it from the implant. Especially in the case of implants located at the front of the mouth, it’s best to avoid things like chewing nails, or using your teeth to open things.
4. Take care of your gums. Sometimes dental implants can cause inflammation, especially if food or bacteria end up around the gum line of the implant and crown. Swishing water around your mouth after eating can help between brushes.
Receiving Dental Implants in Red Deer at Alpen Dental
Are you looking to receive dental implants in the Red Deer area? Alpen Dental offers a wide range of general, cosmetic, restorative dental treatments. There is no need to travel to Calgary or Edmonton when our experienced dental clinic in Red Deer provides quality dental implants near you. We even offer office hours on weekends for your convenience and flexibility. Our team understands you may have some questions about dental implant treatment and encourage you to give us a call or schedule a complimentary consultation to answer all of your questions and determine if you are a candidate.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants Near You
If you are missing teeth, and are looking to speak with a dentist near you, book a consultation to speak to our dentist about receiving treatment for dental implants in Red Deer. Don’t hesitate to contact our team to learn more about this restorative dentistry treatment.
FAQ
1. What is the downside of dental implants?
A) The main downsides expressed by patients would be that it is a costly procedure but others include it being a surgical procedure and the recovery period is around 6 – 8 months.
2. Do dental implants hurt?
A) Post-surgery discomfort is normal in the first couple of weeks of recovery. A recovery plan is usually agreed upon prior to the procedure to prepare and account for everything in the recovery process.
