Tooth decay and tooth loss continue to be one of the most common health issues among Americans today. Excellent dental care strides have yet to eliminate the potential for tooth loss. Historically, treatment options for tooth loss came down to either dentures or bridges. Dental implants are a more recent option and are more flexible for replacing single teeth. Two of the biggest questions patients ask their dentists about dental implants are “Are dental implants permanent?” and “How long do dental implants last?”
Since dental implants essentially replace the tooth root, these are considered permanent fixes. They swap what should have been a permanent tooth with a permanent fabricated tooth. That effectively answers the second question. Since they are a permanent solution, they tend to last for a person’s entire life. Dental implants are fused with the underlying bone to provide a lasting solution to a missing tooth. To learn more about dental implants and dental implant services in Maryland, call Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD at 443.733.6879, and our team can help you schedule a consultation.
Are Dental Implants Permanent?
Dental implants are permanent. They last a lifetime. The one caveat is that they require proper care though the same is true of your natural teeth. The good news for people who get dental implants is that they do not need any specialized care. Instead, you must continue good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and attending regular dental cleanings. As long as you do that, you’ll be able to answer “How long do dental implants last?” with a simple “forever.”
With those questions out of the way, it’s worth exploring what makes dental implants a permanent fix. Getting a dental implant more or less involves creating a brand new tooth out of metal and other materials. Here’s how it works.
The process starts with a tooth root implant. A tooth root implant involves anchoring a titanium post into the jawbone, where the missing tooth would typically have been secured. Once the titanium post is placed into the jaw, the area is allowed to heal. It can take up to 12 weeks for the jaw and mouth to heal and accept the metal as a new body part.
Next comes a connector holding the new tooth with that initial post bonded to the jawbone. This is called an abutment. Once the abutment is in place, your dentist will take an impression of your bite to create a mold to fabricate a replacement tooth. This replacement tooth is called a crown. The crown is custom-made and then placed over the abutment. Crowns are not only customizable in shape but can also be colored to match the surrounding teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The long-lasting nature of dental implants is one of their most significant benefits. They may not always be cheap, but they will be a permanent solution. A few other advantages of dental implants include:
- Improved cosmetic appearance
- Better oral health
- Durability
- Convenience in contrast to dentures
- Easier eating
Another benefit of dental implants is that almost everyone is eligible for this lasting fix to missing or damaged teeth. The prerequisites to be a good candidate for a dental implant are healthy gums and enough bone density in the jaw to hold the implant. There are a few scenarios that could make someone a poor candidate for getting a dental implant. This includes heavy smokers, those with severe diabetes or heart disease, and those who have had radiation therapy in the head or neck area.
As with any somewhat invasive dental procedure, people often wonder how much pain is involved in getting a dental implant. The reality is that because of anesthesia during the procedure, very little pain is experienced while getting a dental implant. Some pain and discomfort will likely occur during recovery. That can often be resolved with over-the-counter pain medicine like Advil or Tylenol.
Dental Implant Services at Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD
Are you looking for dental implant services? Dental Designs of Maryland – Hanover, MD, offers various implant services to meet your needs. We offer both single tooth and full arch replacements. Our skilled team will work with you to determine which type of implant is right for you and provide you with the desired results.
Dental implants can provide a great solution if you miss one or more teeth. Dental implants are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. They are also strong and durable, making them a long-term investment in oral health. Contact 443.733.6879 today to learn more about whether or not a dental implant could improve your smile.