What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a highly effective, permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They are small, screw-like posts made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that act as artificial tooth roots. These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over time. Once healed, the implants provide a stable foundation for various dental restorations, including crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Dental implants not only restore the appearance of your smile but also the function of natural teeth, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence without the worry of them being unstable or falling out.  

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits compared to traditional tooth replacement options. Here are some of the key advantages of dental implants. 

1. Improved Appearance
   • Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in both appearance and feel. They are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, giving you a confident, healthy smile. 
2. Strength 
   • Unlike removable dentures, implants are securely anchored to the jawbone, providing the strength needed for chewing and speaking without slipping or shifting.
3. Long-Lasting
   • With proper care, dental implants can last for decades or even a lifetime, making them cost effective overtime. 
4. Bone Health 
   • When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of structure.  Implants stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss and promoting facial bone structure. 
5. Improved Oral Health
   • Dental implants do not require altering or grinding down adjacent healthy teeth, as is necessary with traditional bridges. This helps maintain the integrity of your natural teeth.
6. Boosted Confidence
   • Dental implants restore your smile and self-esteem, allowing you to socialize, eat, and laugh without worrying about missing teeth and being confident in your smile. 
7. Easy Maintenance
   • Caring for dental implants is as simple as maintaining your natural teeth—brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

While dental implants are a versatile solution, not everyone is a candidate. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

1. Healthy Gums and Bone Density
   • Sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums are essential for the implant to fuse properly. In cases of bone loss, bone grafting may be necessary before implant placement to ensure stability. 
2. Good Overall Health
   • Candidates should be in good general health and free from conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders.
3. Non-Smokers
   • Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Smokers may still qualify, but they may need to quit or reduce smoking before and after to ensure proper healing. 
4. Commitment to Oral Hygiene
   • Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. Implants can last decades with proper brushing, flossing and dental visits. 
5. Missing One or More Teeth
   • Whether you are missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, implants can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Dental implants are an innovative, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. While most people are good candidates for dental implants, a consultation is essential to determine if they are the right choice for you. Contact the gentle dentists at Tempe Dental Care today for a consultation and to see if you are a candidate for Dental Implants.