Implants are revolutionary, and a great way to replace one’s teeth. With over 120 million Americans not having at least one tooth, and 36 million without any teeth, this is a huge deal. Implants have changed the means in which you treat lost teeth. Whether you have partial or full dentures, or just need one or two teeth replaced, implants are a great way to boost the feel, look, and the function of these teeth naturally.
What Implants Are
Implants are essentially a cylinder made of titanium screws that get placed on the jawbone, fused in, and help with the missing teeth. Once these are put in place, then the dentist can put mounts or crowns on this. In essence, it’s replacing the teeth to make it real.
Who’s Eligible for This
For some interest, they may wonder if they can get implants. After all, bridges, along with dentures aren’t very comfy, and because of that, it can be quite hard to take care of.
Some people might not have bone or the tooth support, which contributes to issues with oral hygiene, gagging, and discomfort.
Many times too, people look at implants because bridges need to have something to rely on, and that might not be possible for some. Implants however, don’t need teeth next to them to hold this in place, and they usually are prepared beforehand.
To get implants,. u need minimally the following:
Healthy gums
Enough bone to support this or be eligible for bone grafting to replace the bone.
Excellent habits and visits on a regular basis, which help with the long-term health and success of these implants.
Costs
Costs of this do vary, especially since they can be done by maxillofacial and oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and also periodontists. But some dentists may take extra training and learn to put this in.
Implants are more expensive than dentures and bridges, and keep in mind that most carriers won’t cover more than 10% of the fees, so you’ll be paying out of pocket more than likely.
Types of Implants
There are different types of implants for you to use, and it can be good for you to look at the options.
The first are endosteal implants, which are implants that are implanted onto the jawbone directly. Once the gum tissues are healed, then another surgery is used to connect the implant and the post together. A crown or artificial tooth is attached there, and It can also be grouped on a denture or bridge.
The second is subperiosteal implants, which are used when someone doesn’t have enough jawbone. Essentially, a frame is put underneath the jawbone below the gums. They heal, and the frame is within the jawbone. These posts get attached and protrude out in the gums, and the teeth are then mounted directly to the posts.
Missing teeth isn’t good to have, and it can cause some problems with talking, smiling, and other health issues. Implants fix this issue.
Single Tooth Implants
Essentially, single tooth implants are for just one tooth. The dentist places the implant within the jawbone, and then, it gets fused to the bone directly. The implant is essentially the “root” for the teeth. Crowds are then attached to replace said teeth.
In order to be a candidate for this, the jawbone does need to be strong enough, and the bone grafting will help with this.
They also will look as well at medical history. If you have liver disease, a severe bleeding disorder, or diabetes, you might not be eligible to get these implants.
