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 Nothing can take the place of a healthy
set of teeth, but when disease or an accident ends in tooth loss, it s good to
know you have some options in restoring your smile.
For some people, dental implants offer a feel and look very similar to their own teeth. Implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically placed beneath your gums. After placement, the implants fuse to the bone of your jaw and act as artificial tooth roots. Replacement teeth - singularly or grouped on a bridge or denture - are then mounted to the implant.
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What are the benefits of implants? |
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One key advantage of implants is that they
fuse to the jawbone, offering stable support to artificial teeth. Dentures,
bridges or individual teeth mounted to the implants won't slip or shift in your
mouth - an especially important benefit when eating and speaking.
This secure fit also helps replacement teeth feel more natural than conventional bridges or dentures. Some people may find the stability of implant-supported dentures to be more comfortable than removable dentures.
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Can anyone have implants? |
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Candidates need to have healthy gums and
adequate bone to support the implant and they must commit to keeping these
structures healthy. Meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits are
critical to the long-term success of dental implants. Because implant placement involves more than one oral surgery, candidates must be in overall good health. Certain chronic diseases - like diabetes, osteoporosis or chronic sinus problems - may interfere with proper healing and could prevent bone from attaching to the implant. Long-term medication use and certain behaviors, like smoking, also may affect the stability of the implant over time.
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What are implants made of? |
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The implant itself is made of metal - usually titanium as it has proven to be very compatible with bone and other
tissues. The surface of some implants are treated with a substance that helps
them adhere to the bone. Just like conventional crowns, bridges or dentures, the
replacement teeth mounted on the implants are made of porcelain, porcelain and
metal, or polymer resin.
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What else should I know about implants? |
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As with any medical or dental procedure,
implant placement is not always successful. You and your dentist should discuss
complications related to healing factors that could influence long-term
retention of the implant.
Placing the implant and allowing the bone to fuse with the implant will take some time. The entire procedure can take place over a few months and usually involves more than one surgical appointment. Your dentist may be able to make a temporary bridge or denture that you can use during this healing period. Placement and adjustment of the artificial teeth also may require more than one fitting. Implant placement also can be costly, and some insurance carriers do not cover this procedure. When considering dental implants, you should check with your insurer to determine how much of the cost will be covered under your plan. If you prefer, you may contact our staff to discuss financing options in detail.
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How can I tell if implants are the right choice for me? |
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Call North Country Dental
for an evaluation. By reviewing your oral health and history, we will help you
determine whether dental implants are an option for you.
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