Dental implants are popular among patients who’ve suffered tooth loss and want to replace their teeth. But is it possible to replace all of your teeth with dental implants? Or will you always need dentures or bridges to replace the rest of your teeth? The answer depends on two things: the health of your gums and the number of teeth you’re missing. Here’s what you need to know about replacing all of your teeth with dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small post that acts as an anchor for a replacement tooth. Implants can be used as stand-alone tooth replacements or they can be used in conjunction with a bridge. In some cases, it’s even possible to use dental implants to create dentures that feel and function like real teeth. A dental implant is made of titanium, a bio-compatible metal that has been proven safe by years of use in humans. Typically, one implant is installed at a time; there are special circumstances where more than one can be used (i.e., if you have no natural teeth left). The other end of your new tooth attaches to an abutment.
How many teeth can you replace with an implant?
The number of natural teeth that can be replaced by an implant varies by individual case. When multiple adjacent teeth are missing, many cases will use two or more dental implants and crowns on each side. However, there are some cases where all of a person’s missing teeth can be replaced with a combination of one implant and dental crowns or dental bridges. Many factors come into play when determining how many natural teeth can be replaced by an implant.
When should I have implants instead of dentures?
Dental implants are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth, but not all patients are candidates. Before we begin treatment, your dentist will evaluate your current condition and discuss alternatives. For example, you may be a candidate for dental bridges or dentures instead of an implant if you: Want to avoid surgery; Have an infection; Are too weak from diabetes or another health condition; Or have other concerns about undergoing oral surgery. Dental implants tend to last longer than other tooth replacement options, but that depends on each individual case. To learn more about what is and isn’t possible with dental implants near me, call Dr. Christopher Saldana at (555) 658-3444 today!
What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures?
Once dental implants are implanted into your jawbone, they can last for a lifetime. You don’t have to remove them or take them out for cleaning. Unlike dentures, which can only be removed by a dentist, you can eat whatever you want as soon as dental implants are placed. Dentures have to be removed before eating or drinking anything hot or cold because doing so could cause damage and discomfort. Dental implant replacements for missing teeth are natural-looking and provide increased chewing ability compared to dentures.
How long does the whole process take from start to finish?
Yes. Like any procedure, there are potential complications associated with dental implants. However, as long as you choose a trusted and experienced dentist who is well-versed in dental implant procedures, your risk of experiencing complications is slim. One potential complication that patients can experience after dental implant surgery is dry socket. This occurs when bacteria gets into an area where your bone has been removed during surgery and causes a dry, painful socket where you had received an implant earlier on. If you think you’re experiencing dry socket, call your dentist immediately for assistance. If not treated promptly, dry socket can lead to additional problems like infection or even tooth loss down the road.
Are there any potential complications associated with dental implants?
Dental implants are extremely popular for replacing missing teeth. Implants are long-lasting, strong, and natural-looking solutions for tooth replacement. However, if you’re going to get dental implants, you’ll need a good dentist who can make sure your implant treatment is as painless and complication-free as possible. Consider going in for regular checkups and x-rays at a reliable dental practice near you. If something does go wrong during your treatment or recovery process, these visits will help catch any potential complications early enough that they can be corrected without causing too much trouble. Some common complications of dental implant treatments include
What should I expect after my procedure is complete?
The first thing you should expect after having a dental implant procedure done is for your gums and jaw to feel very sore. If you’re not taking pain medications, expect your mouth to feel uncomfortable for about a week following surgery. Taking over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate any pain that may occur following surgery, but it may still be necessary for you to take time off work depending on how painful your recovery period becomes. After a week has passed, your jaw will have started healing and feeling more comfortable. Expect there to be swelling and some bleeding inside of your mouth following implant placement surgery.