Dental Implants a Great Solution for Replacing Missing or Lost Teeth
Did you know about 69% of Americans aged between 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth? The statistics are even scary as the age bracket increases. Most Americans have lost about 12 teeth by the time they are 50. And for senior citizens aged 65 and above, about 26% have lost all their teeth! Indeed, missing teeth is a thorn in the flesh of many Americans.
As you let the above statistics sink in, there is good news. Whether you have lost your teeth due to injury, tooth decay, or gum disease, you can replace what you have lost with dental implants from Aqua Dental. If you have a healthy jawbone and are gum disease-free, Dr. Chitra Pradeep and the team can replace your teeth with implants that look and function like natural teeth.
The dental implant procedure
The first step during implant treatment is to book a consultation with Dr. Pradeep. We examine your mouth to determine the health of your bone and rule out gum disease and cavities. Should we find oral diseases, they should be addressed first to minimize dental implant failure. We recommend mini dental implants or bone grafting if you have insufficient jawbone.
Once your candidacy for dental implants is approved, the next step is implant surgery. This step is delicate, but with the help of technology, we can install a dental implant in a precise location in the jawbone. After the implant surgery, we give it about six months to heal and fuse with the jawbone.
Once fusion occurs, we install an abutment and complete the process by placing a natural-looking prosthesis, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on the number of teeth lost.
Benefits of dental implants
While a dental implant looks like your natural teeth, the benefits don’t stop there.
Dental implants have numerous pros, including:
- Last for life with proper care
- Stabilize the neighboring teeth
- They aren’t cumbersome to maintain
- They restore your full oral functionality
- With a success rate of over 95%, dental implants are the most successful procedure of any implant-based treatment
- Dental implants deter bone deterioration
Ready for new teeth that stay put? Please dial (512) 643-6571 to book an appointment with Aqua Dental for implant dentistry services. We are located at the heart of Austin, TX, but serve residents of surrounding regions, including students at the University of Texas
Dental Implants
FAQs
What are dental implants, and how do they work?
Dental implants are a multi-component dental restoration that can mimic a missing tooth’s root. Dental implants are typically made from titanium, but other materials may also be made available depending on your dentist. The implant post is surgically implanted into your jawbone, and once healed, an abutment and prosthetic tooth (a specially crafted dental crown) are attached to complete your new “tooth.” The implant fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable base for the replacement tooth. This long-lasting solution not only restores the appearance of your smile but also functions similarly to natural teeth, allowing for proper biting and chewing.
Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?
Most adults in good general health are potential candidates for dental implants. A successful candidate should have sufficient bone density to support the implant, healthy gums, and a commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or those who smoke heavily, may face challenges in the healing process. A consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon can help determine if dental implants are the right option for your situation.
How long does the dental implant process take?
Several variables affect the dental implant schedule, such as the patient’s general health, the quantity of implants being placed, and the intricacy of the process. Typically, the process can take several months to complete. After the initial implant placement, a healing period of three to six months is usually required for osseointegration to occur. Once the implants are stable, your dentist will place the abutments and crowns, which may take an additional few weeks. Your dentist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your individual needs.
Are dental implants painful?
The dental implant process is frequently carried out under local anesthesia to reduce surgical discomfort. Similar to how one might feel after a tooth extraction, patients may suffer localized swelling, discomfort, or bruising after the treatment. Although most patients indicate moderate soreness, and go away in a few days, pain levels usually vary. Any post-operative pain can be reduced with over-the-counter painkillers or prescription drugs.
How do I care for dental implants once they are placed?
The success and lifespan of dental implants depend on proper maintenance. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash, flossing daily, and brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush are all crucial components of good dental hygiene. Gum and implant health can be tracked with routine dental examinations and cleanings. Even though implants cannot decay like real teeth, maintaining good gum health is essential to avoiding problems like peri-implantitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue around the implant.
Can dental implants improve my quality of life?
Absolutely! Dental implants can significantly enhance your quality of life by restoring your smile’s functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, implants provide a stable and secure solution. Patients often experience improved confidence and self-esteem, better chewing efficiency, and the ability to speak clearly. Additionally, dental implants help preserve jawbone integrity, preventing facial sagging and ensuring a youthful appearance.