Tooth loss affects millions of people worldwide. More than 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth, and more than 36 million Americans don't have any teeth, according to the American College of Prosthodontists. Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacements because they are like natural teeth in appearance and function. Unlike conventional dentures or dental bridges, a dental implant replaces the entire tooth, from root to crown, ensuring maximum stability. Dental implants are long-lasting and reliable tooth replacements that restore their ability to chew and speak easily.
Dr. Blake Nelson, DDS Cosmetic, Implant & Sedation Dentistry provides implant dentistry to patients who desire a natural-looking and permanent solution to tooth loss. Unlike removable tooth replacements like dentures and bridges, dental implants restore your mouth's natural function.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants replace missing tooth roots and permanently restore your tooth's function and appearance. A dental implant consists of three parts:
- Implant post–thin, biocompatible titanium alloy
- Abutment–connects the artificial tooth to the implant post
- Artificial tooth–a custom-made crown, denture, or bridge
To secure the dental implant, your dentist surgically places the post into the jawbone, where it becomes a part of your mouth's anatomy. Over time, the jaw and implant post-integrate, creating a natural and stable foundation for your artificial tooth or teeth.
Why Is Replacing Missing Teeth Important?
Think of your mouth as a grove of Aspen trees. Each tooth is separate––a different tree in and of itself––but they are all connected beneath the earth through their rhizomatic root system. Each tooth also has a root that connects to the jawbone, which keeps our bone tissue healthy. Within each tooth's root canal resides pulp––a cluster of living tissue, arteries, cells, and nerves that keeps the tooth and mouth in fine feather. Your tooth roots help with your bite power, as they physically connect to the jawbone, so you can eat without fear of your teeth slipping out of place.
Losing a tooth can make chewing, biting, and speaking a challenge. Also, missing teeth can diminish your self-confidence when socializing or meeting new people. Untreated tooth loss can result in gum disease, additional tooth loss, bone loss, an improper bite, heart disease, and other issues.
Replacing missing teeth prevents these issues, especially if you have dental implants. Dental implants are anchored in the jaw like natural teeth; over time, they preserve the jaw bone and promote bone health. Replacing lost teeth also helps you chew more effectively and speak more clearly.
How Common Are Dental Implants?
The American Academy of Implant Dentistry states that about 3 million people in the United States have dental implants, which is expected to grow by 500,000 per year. More people choose dental implants over conventional dentures and bridges because of their reliability, aesthetics, and comfort.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are safe for most good candidates. Studies show that dental implants have a 95–98 percent success rate for 40 to 50+ years. The success rates for dental implants don't decrease over time, whereas one in three dental bridges fail at 15 years. Overall, dental implants have far fewer complications than dental bridges.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
Dental implants are not painful because your dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. Patients do not often experience pain or discomfort during the implant placement procedure. However, as with any surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort within the first 48 hours after the procedure. Your dentist can prescribe pain relievers if needed, but most people can dull the pain with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How Long Does the Implant Process Take?
The dental implant process can take a few months, or several months, from start to finish. The timeline depends on the patient's specific case, if they require pre-treatments, and more. The implant placement surgery can take one to two hours, and healing may take three to six months. Once the jaw completely heals, we place the crown to the implant, and the process is complete.
Why Might Someone Want Dental Implants?
Dental implants have numerous advantages, which is why people continue to choose dental implants as their tooth replacement:
- Long-term and reliable
- Immobile and secure
- Easy to clean and maintain, much like natural teeth
- Custom-made for your unique smile
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Resistant to cavities
- Stimulates jawbone and promotes bone health
- Supports facial muscles and offers a more youthful appearance
- Protects adjacent teeth
Dental implants in Winston-Salem, NC, may be an excellent solution if you have one or several missing teeth. Don't hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Blake Nelson, DDS Cosmetic, Implant & Sedation Dentistry to schedule your consultation. We would be pleased to speak with you about your treatment options and what's possible for your smile.
Am I a Candidate For Dental Implants?
Many people with healthy gums and bones are candidates for dental implants. Depending on your unique case, your dentist will determine if you're a candidate for dental implants and what type of dental procedure will best meet your needs and goals. Some patients with low jawbone density or periodontal disease may not be candidates for dental implants unless they receive pre-treatments, like bone or gum grafting, to ensure the implant's success. The only way to know if you're a candidate for dental implants is to schedule an examination with your dentist so they can evaluate your oral health.
Dental Implants In Winston-Salem, NC
Dental implants are highly effective tooth replacements that stand the test of time. Not only do they restore your smile's ability to chew and speak, but they also look and feel natural while promoting better oral health and wellness. Would you like to learn more about dental implants in Winston-Salem? Please call our dental office to Dr. Blake Nelson.
We look forward to seeing you at Dr. Blake Nelson, DDS Cosmetic, Implant & Sedation Dentistry!
