Dental implants are the premier tooth replacement option in modern dentistry, providing an aesthetic and functional solution for patients who have lost one or more of their teeth. Unlike traditional restorations like dentures and fixed bridges, which rely on modifying nearby natural teeth, implant-supported crowns are fused directly to the jaw bone and offer unparalleled stability and durability. In fact, dental implants can last from several decades to a lifetime when properly cared for by an experienced team of dentists.
While dental implants are more costly than other tooth replacement solutions, their long-term benefits cannot be overstated. The only tooth replacement solution that closely resembles the form and function of your natural teeth, dental implants can dramatically improve your quality of life with restored oral health, self-esteem and systemic wellness.
Most commonly made of titanium, an extremely strong metal dental implants louisville kentucky that fuses easily with your bone (called osseointegration), a dental implant has three parts: a screw-shaped replacement tooth root, an abutment connector and a crown. The abutment connects the crown to the replacement tooth and helps the crown blend in with your existing teeth. The crown, which can be made of porcelain, resin, zirconia or a combination of materials, covers the replacement tooth root and is custom-made to match your surrounding natural teeth.
Once the abutment and crown are placed, your implant will have an exceptionally high success rate, with a documented success rate of over 95%. The only thing that can prevent your dental implant from functioning properly is failure to maintain proper oral hygiene and routine checkups, especially brushing and flossing.
In addition to their superior stability and durability, dental implants help preserve the structure of your jaw bone, which is a primary factor in maintaining healthy tooth roots and an attractive facial appearance. This is because a missing tooth can cause adjacent teeth to shift, and it can also lead to deterioration of the underlying bone. Dental implants are designed to prevent this deterioration by stimulating the jaw bone to remain active and avoid a wrinkled, toothless facial appearance.
Dental implants are a safe and predictable treatment for most patients, with minimal discomfort during the healing process. However, there are some medical conditions that can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. If you have diabetes, heart disease or any other condition that affects blood circulation, it may be necessary to delay your procedure until your medical conditions are under control.
Smoking also significantly reduces your chances of successfully receiving dental implants, as the toxins in cigarettes can damage the abutments and restorations. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you quit smoking as soon as you decide to have dental implants placed.