You may have heard about dental implants from a friend, from ads, or from a recent story you read online. You may have an idea of what they are, and you may be wondering if they’re right for you. Read on to learn more about dental implants, including what they are and when a cosmetic dentist may recommend this particular dental procedure for you or a loved one.
What Are Dental Implants?
Considered to be the best method currently available for replacing a missing tooth, a dental implant is essentially a titanium post that’s anchored into the gums and replaces the root section of the missing tooth. The implant procedure is now considered routine, often requiring nothing more than local anesthesia. Several implants can be inserted at one time; one of the biggest benefits of going with implants over some of the other alternatives is that the teeth-supporting bone structure is preserved, at least to a significant degree.
After a period of time during which the gums and other tooth-supporting structures heal and recover, each implant is topped with a natural-looking crown made to closely match the look and feel of your other teeth. With a success rate of over 95 percent, implants offer a successful, long-lasting solution to the problem of missing teeth.
Depending on the patient’s specific needs, dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all the teeth. They can also serve as anchors to hold removable dentures comfortably in place.
What Issues Can They Address?
Who might benefit from a dental implant procedure? Cosmetic dentists here in Salisbury and all across the nation are seeing that dental implants can benefit a wide range of patients, treating many different conditions. Once a person’s facial development has completed (which can be anywhere between 16 and 18 years of age), implants can be considered a treatment option for correcting issues. They are considered safe and effective for most adults in any age range.
These are just some of the issues that can be successfully addressed and corrected through dental implants:
- Missing a tooth since birth
- Lost one tooth or more teeth due to injury
- Tooth decay or infection has led to missing teeth
- Advanced decay or infection requires a tooth to be extracted in the near future
- When a bridge that’s broken or no longer effective needs to be replaced
- In cases where dentures aren’t working out for the patient
- For anyone who needs a tooth extraction for cosmetic reasons
One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they’re considered to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. The treatment has a high success rate and is viewed by most dentists as a long-term solution.
How Do I Know If They’re Right For Me?
If you’re wondering if dental implants can help you, consult with your dentist. Here in Salisbury, the dental staff of Merritt Mill Dental Associates has ample experience with dental implants and can address any questions you may have. Give us a call!
Here are some questions you can ask yourself first. If the answer is “yes” to any of them, dental implants may be right for you:
- Am I missing one or more teeth?
- Are my dentures no longer effective?
- Would dental implants be more effective than standard bridework?
- Do I want a long-lasting solution to missing teeth?
- Am I looking for improvements in my smile, my speech, and my overall dental comfort?
What If I Have More Questions?
As with any procedure, the more you know and the better informed you are about the benefits, risks, recovery time, and long-term prognosis, the better prepared you are to figure out, with the help of your dentist, if dental implants are right for you.
If you have any questions, we invite you to bring them to Merritt Mill Dental Associates. Our staff cares about each patient, treating everyone with friendliness and respect. Our dentists regularly perform dental implant procedures every month, so we are well-versed in the latest techniques, and we’ll be happy to address any questions you may have.
We At Merritt Mill Dental Associates Are Here For You!
If you’re missing any teeth, or you will soon be missing a tooth or several teeth because they need to be extracted due to dental decay or infection, know that options are available to you. In addition to discussing dental implants with your dentist, ask about the pros and cons of other treatments, including dentures, bridges, and more. It may be possible that you don’t need a full implant, as a veneer may be sufficient. Consider all your viable options before making a decision.
The dentists and hygienists at Merritt Mill Dental Associates in Salisbury are here to help you restore the natural look and function of your teeth. Reach out to us today; we are ready to apply our knowledge and gentle dentistry techniques to help you!
