A dental implant is a sophisticated tooth replacement option. Dental bridges and partial dentures are other common options, but there are considerable disadvantages. All three are capable of helping you to chew, talk, and smile normally. However, a dental implant is secured by drilling directly into the jawbone. This anchor gives the implant unmatched stability and gives your jaw the stimulation it needs to stay healthy. But do dental implants last forever?
Do Implants Last Forever?
Dental implants are also the best long-term option. But do implants last forever? The different components may require some work over the years, but dental implants are generally considered to be a life-long solution. There’s no stress on the surrounding teeth, and there’s no need for regular re-fitting. A dental implant is the closest thing to a natural tooth available, which is why your restorative dentist is more likely to suggest this option if you’re eligible for it.
How Does a Dental Implant Work?
A dental implant is made up of three parts. The implant itself is the anchor of the dental implant. To place it, your dentist will drill into your jaw. Afterward, the jaw will be allowed to heal for several months. During the healing process, the jawbone will grow around the implant, giving your dental implant a very strong foundation. From there, your dentist can place the abutment, which is used to attach the crown. The crown is the part that mimics the look of your natural teeth.
Are Dental Implants Right for Everyone?
Although dental implants are a great tooth replacement choice, they aren’t always the right choice. If you’re in poor health or have already lost a substantial amount of bone in your jaw, then your dentist will likely recommend a different tooth replacement option. A moderate amount of bone loss can be rectified by using a bone graft. It does draw out the overall process, but it may be necessary in some cases.
If you have a condition that slows healing or causes bone loss, then you will want to have a candid conversation with your dentist to find the option that is best for you. Both partial dentures and dental bridges can offer more than satisfactory results for patients who aren’t good candidates for dental implants.
How Do You Maintain a Dental Implant?
As with your natural teeth, it is important to take care of your dental implant(s). By brushing after meals and flossing regularly, you’ll significantly increase the longevity of the crown at the top of your implant. The only real difference is that you should use a soft-bristled brush. Dental crowns are often made of porcelain and other similar materials, which are a bit more sensitive to abrasion than your natural teeth. By using a soft-bristled brush, you’ll avoid wearing the crown down inadvertently.
Unfortunately, crowns do not last forever. With appropriate care, they can easily last more than ten years, but you will have to get the crown replaced about once a decade. However, that is the only part of the dental implant that is likely to require professional maintenance and replacement. Both the abutment and implant post will typically last a lifetime as long as you take care of your oral health.
Discussing Options with Your Dentist
If you’re considering dental implants in Cerritos, then take the time to discuss the pros and cons with your restorative dentist. We look at your current:
- Oral health
- Age
- General health
- And personal preferences
Then we can help you to determine the best tooth-replacement option for you. Whether it’s dental implants, dental bridges, or partial dentures you can be sure that Jesmine Boghawala DDS will get you the care you need.
