If you find yourself missing teeth someday, don’t despair. Dental technology has come a long way, and dentures are no longer your only option. But what’s the difference between dental implants and dentures? And in what situation would you find yourself getting dental implants? Here’s what you need to know:
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth that replaces a missing tooth.
When do you get dental implants?
Dental implants are often used to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth that have been lost because of an accident or tooth decay.
How is it done?
The whole procedure usually takes more than one trip to the dentist. The placement of the implant (the titanium post) will happen in the first procedure. The implant then needs about 2 to 6 months to fuse with the bone. After successful fusion of bone and implant, the prosthetic component (the crown or tooth) will be connected to the implant. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime without replacement.
Why should I consider dental implants?
Dental implants give a more natural look and feel than dentures. Despite the costliness of the procedure, dental implants can last a lifetime and contribute to an improved bite and preserve your surrounding teeth.
Dental implants can be an alternative to dentures, but it can vary with each patient’s situation. If you have dentures and you’re unhappy with them or if you have a missing tooth, talk to your dental professional and ask him or her if dental implants are for you.