Most people are candidates for dental implants and their benefits. The dental implants procedure is a tooth restoration that involves inserting implant posts into the jaw to support a dental prosthesis. However, certain aspects of a person's oral health can determine whether they can receive dental implants or not.
Dental implant restoration is available at Vatan Dental Group in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. Dentists often recommend dental implants after performing a comprehensive evaluation of the patient. Call us today at (310) 906-1300 to book an appointment or learn more about our services.
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than three million Americans have dental implants, and the number continually grows by approximately 500 thousand each year. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone to serve as the root of a replacement tooth. The titanium posts are later topped with the replacement tooth or teeth usually in the form of a crown, bridge, or denture.
Individuals with missing or severely damaged teeth can achieve a more attractive smile and restore their oral health and function to an ideal level through dental implants. Unlike with dentures, there are no messy gluing and cleaning procedures and they do not have to be taken out at night. They are the tooth replacement option that most closely resembles the function of natural teeth.
According to the American Dental Association, implants are one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past four decades. Along with helping to restore functionality and completing a set of teeth, dental implants can also help restore the appearance of a natural smile. It is a versatile treatment option that works to treat a variety of complications including:
Many dentists recommend dental implants to patients who have a missing tooth. Whether the missing tooth is the result of natural aging, a blow to the face or another cause, implants work well as a long-term replacement solution. For single tooth replacement, a dental crown will also be attached to the implant. The dental crown will provide the appearance of a natural tooth.
Implants are also an option for multiple missing teeth, as well. For a section of two or more missing teeth, the dentist may recommend dental implants with a bridge attachment. For full arch replacement, it might be best to attach a full denture to surgically-placed implants in the jaw.
Most dentists will try and save the natural tooth after damage occurs through dental crowns or another type of restoration. However, there are times when damaged or loose teeth are better off being removed and replaced with dental implants. This is the case in situations where an infected tooth threatens the patient's oral and overall health.
During the implant consultation, the dentist will conduct a thorough oral examination and most likely order dental X-rays to determine if the patient is a candidate for dental implants. The dentist will consider the gum health, bone density, and overall health of the patient during the first visit.
Natural teeth and dental implants work similarly, and they are both supported by the gums. If the gums are weak, eroded, or if the patient has periodontal disease, then the implant may not hold the way it should long-term. Implants are still an option with poor gum health, but additional treatment is likely necessary.
Dental implants replace the teeth while also preserving the natural bone. However, the jaw needs the proper amount of bone dentistry to support the dental implant. The jawbone is also essential for a firm hold of the implant, abutment, and artificial tooth. After tooth loss occurs, the bone inside the jaw begins to lose its density. Over time, this can result in the need for a bone grafting procedure to rebuild the strength and density of the jawbone. Once the jawbone is strong enough, we will begin the process.
The implant process also involves a minor surgical procedure to place the dental implant inside the jawbone. As is the case with any surgery, the patient should be willing and able to go through the process. This procedure is slightly more invasive than other replacement solutions.
Missing or crowded teeth can also prevent a person from being a dental implant candidate. Tooth loss can be a result of infection, trauma, or accident. Sometimes, infection sets in if patients fail to adopt good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing and flossing, mouthwash, and visiting the dentist for checkups and cleaning.
Additionally, people with crowded teeth may need orthodontic treatment or tooth extraction before receiving a dental implant. These treatments can help create enough space in a patient's mouth to allow for dental implant placement. Anyone interested in getting dental implants needs to be ready to take their oral health seriously. Poor oral hygiene may cause premature failure of the implants. Usually, the dentist will provide instructions on how to take care of the new teeth properly.
Q. How are dental implants used to replace missing teeth?
Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Q. Do missing or crowded teeth affect dental implant candidacy?
Q. What other common issues can prevent a person from being a dental implant candidate?
Q. What are the benefits of dental implants?
Q. What happens after the procedure?
Q. What dental treatments are possible in a smile makeover?
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. How long does it take to place a dental implant?
Q. What dietary and lifestyle changes do I need to make after my dental implant procedure?
People who grind or clench their teeth may need to take extra precautions to protect their dental implants. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be the result of anxiety, sleep, stress, and hyperactivity. Bruxism places undue stress on the teeth and causes premature implant failure. Patients who grind their teeth need to take necessary precautions before getting dental implants, including the use of a mouthguard to protect the teeth from the effects of bruxism.
Another factor that may determine if dental implants are right for you is patience. Dental implant restoration may take as long as six months because of the osseointegration process. The dentist will only place the final restoration on the dental implants after the bone heals fully. Preliminary procedures such as bone graft may add to the timeline. Fabricating the final restoration may also take weeks. Anyone considering dental implants needs to prepare for the commitment.
Q.What happens if I have crooked or crowded teeth but need dental implants?
A.Crowded or crooked teeth can prevent a person from receiving dental implants successfully. Fortunately, patients can receive dental treatments such as tooth extraction to create space to place the implants. In addition, patients with crooked teeth may need teeth straightening treatment to align their teeth.
Q.Is there an age limit to getting dental implants?
A.Dental implants are suitable for adults with permanent teeth. Although older patients can get implants, they may not have the required bone density to support an implant, especially if they have worn dentures for long. In such cases, a mini dental implant may be the more appropriate option since the metal post is shorter and needs less bone structure.
Q.Can I still receive dental implants if I wear dentures?
A.The dentist may be able to support your dentures with dental implants. Implant-supported restorations are usually stronger and fitting than regular dentures. It will also prevent further jawbone resorption, which is common with denture wearers.
Q.How long does it take to receive dental implants?
A.The number of implants determines the duration of treatment. It may take about an hour to complete the placement. There is a waiting period during which the bone heals. Once osseointegration is complete, the dentist will complete the final restoration in no time.
Q.Are there any risks associated with dental implant placement?
A.Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated. Issues are rare, and are usually minor and easily treatable should they occur. Such risks include infection, injury or damage to the surrounding oral structures, sinus issues, and nerve damage.
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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We are here to help patients make the right decision about treatment and determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants treatment, then call us at (310) 906-1300. We can schedule a time for you to come in for a visit. We can determine what your oral health needs for a healthy and bright smile.
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