graphic of dental implant in jaw

Continuing through life with one or more missing teeth can make a person feel incredibly self-conscious. Not only can a missing tooth affect your appearance, but it can also make simple tasks such as eating, talking, or smiling a challenge.

Today’s advanced dentistry techniques give patients with missing teeth a straightforward and long-lasting option. Learn more about dental implants, including how they look, feel, and function just as a natural tooth and why they’re the best option for replacing one or more missing teeth in your smile.

Implants Are Different From Partial Dentures or a Bridge

The most important fact a person can have about dental implants is how they are different than traditional replacement methods such as partials or bridges. An implant is an artificial tooth that looks and feels just like a natural tooth surgically placed in your mouth.

Dental Implants are:

  • Made of metallic titanium and bone-like ceramic material
  • Surgically “rooted” to your jaw bone for a permanent replacement
  • A long-term solution for tooth replacement

Implants Have Unique Advantages

Dental implants are quickly becoming the most popular form of tooth replacement, and it’s easy to see why. Implants have unique advantages over other traditional replacement options such as:

  • Stability – Implants give you the same stability and security as your natural teeth without any slipping or shifting that might happen with other replacement options
  • Resistant – The material implants are made from is highly durable and can be cleaned appropriately just as you would your natural teeth without having to take them out for cleaning or soakings.
  • Strong – Implants are entirely free-standing, meaning they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support which helps keep surrounding teeth strong.
  • Preventative –  Implants prevent the shifting of nearby teeth, preserving jawbone and the contour of your face.
  • Undetectable – Implants are the ideal cosmetic solution to missing teeth, especially if the missing tooth is in a place in your mouth that shows when you smile.

Implants Have a High Success Rate

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, making them the ultimate treatment option for tooth replacement with the highest success rate of over 95% and lasts patients for 40-50+ years.

  • The lifespan of a Bridge. The average lifespan of a dental bridge is just ten years, primarily due to weakened tooth structures supporting the bridges. The teeth under the bridge are more susceptible to decay and fracture.
  • The lifespan of Partials. Removable partial dentures typically last between 3 to 5 years, and during that time, they often need to be realigned as the bone continues to resorb and deteriorate.

Dental implants have the best long-term success with far fewer complications.

An Experienced Implant Provider Is Critical

Many dentists offer dental implants, but not every dentist in practice or office might be credentialed. Always ask a dentist if they are an “AAID Credentialed Implant Dentist.” Asking this question will give you peace of mind knowing that your implant dentist has proven levels of implant education, experience, and the required skills to complete the procedure.

Implant Success is Reliant on Your Home Care

In most cases, complete healing takes place over two to four months after a dental implant. During this time, you need to take a few extra precautions to make sure your mouth heals properly for long-term results.

  • Get Plenty of Rest – When your body is sleeping and resting, it can renew itself, especially during the healing process.
  • Follow Your Providers Instructions – Dr. Baudean will give you aftercare instructions that you should follow. Obey the rules about eating, keeping the area clean, and scheduling follow-up exams. Exams are the best way for us to ensure there is no infection or complications after the procedure.
  • Keep Your Mouth Clean – Continuing to brush and floss but doing so with care is vital in your healing journey. We may recommend specific products like medicated mouthwash or water flosser to keep you in keeping your mouth adequately cleaned.
  • Watching Out For Problems – If something seems not quite right, or like there could be an issue forming, check in with our office so we can help you in proper healing.

Aubrey Baudean DDS is a restorative and implant expert and has helped many patients just like you restore their confidence in their smiles. Contact us today to schedule a dental implant consultation to learn more about if this advanced cosmetic dentistry treatment is right for you.

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