Why are so many people opting to get dental implants these days? When someone loses a tooth or a few teeth, aren’t dentures still the go-to? Not anymore. Dentures are still the best option for some people, and others choose a bridge to replace one or more teeth. But more people are choosing dental implants today as they tend to be more like your natural teeth. There are a lot of reasons you may lose a tooth, or two or three teeth, such as falling on the ice or being involved in a car accident. Sometimes a tooth gets abscessed and has to be pulled leaving a large gap. Dental implants may be the best tooth-replacement option for you.
What is an implant and how does it work?
Dental implants are surgically placed in your mouth where a tooth used to be. Think of it as an artificial or prosthetic tooth that is surgically attached to the jawbone. The implant itself is attached to the jawbone and then a post, that looks kind of like a screw, is placed on the implant. Once it’s all healed, the post will securely anchor the crown that will be placed on it. It will then work just like your natural tooth did.
Can anyone get dental implants?
A visit with your Vienna, MO dentist will reveal whether or not you are a good candidate for implants. You must be generally in good health and have a healthy jawbone and gums to be considered for the procedure. If you are pregnant, you will need to wait until you are no longer pregnant to undergo the procedure. Some chronic illnesses will make it unsafe for you to have implants especially those which weaken or suppress your immune system.
What is it like to get implants?
There are three basic steps to getting dental implants and they are all done in the dental office. You’ll be given local anesthesia. In some situations, the dentist might combine the first two steps and do them in one visit. But it will require more than one visit for you to get implants. In general, the three steps include:
- The first step in the process is where Dr. Barnhart surgically places the implants. They are attached to the jawbone where they will integrate into the bone and gum tissue will cover them over. It can take three to six months for them to heal completely.
- The second step will be to place the titanium posts in the implants. Sometimes, these are placed when the dentist places the implant, but in most cases, it is done during a separate visit. The post is going to be what anchors the tooth.
- Once the post and implant have healed, the dentist will attach the custom-made crown to the post. It will have the look and feel of a natural tooth.
Are implants better than dentures?
Most people feel that dental implants are much better than dentures. This may be due to several reasons. The most notable reason is that the implant will be attached securely and won’t slip like dentures tend to do when you are eating or talking. Implants are also easier to care for, you will just need to observe basic oral hygiene habits like brushing two times a day and flossing daily. If taken care of properly, implants will serve you well for the rest of your life. Dentures often need to be repaired or even removed for cleaning. Dr. Joseph and Dr. John Barnhart can discuss your situation with you and help you determine if it’s the best decision for you.
Contact Dr. Barnhart
If you are wondering if you should get implants to replace missing teeth, please contact us with your questions. At Barnhart Dental, we will be happy to discuss your concerns and answer your questions.
