Dental issues affect millions of people worldwide, and many experience tooth loss due to gum disease, injury, or dental decay. Today, we will discuss the life-changing benefits of opting for dental implants, a revolutionary solution to tooth loss that can improve your overall health and significantly contribute to a better quality of life.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically secured into your jawbone. They serve as a durable foundation for dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants have been a viable option for tooth replacement for over 50 years and have shown a long-term success rate of 90-95%.
The Dental Implant Procedure and Recovery
For single teeth implants or short-span tooth bridges, the procedure typically consists of three main steps. First, your oral surgeon will place the titanium implant into your jawbone. Then, as your jaw heals over the next few months, it will fuse with the implant in a process called osseointegration. Finally, once the implant has fully integrated, your dentist will attach the abutment and dental crown to the implant, completing the process.
In some cases, teeth are able to be attached on the same day as the implant placement. An example of this is Teeth-in-a-Day (All-on-4®) or All-on-X treatment protocols. There are also ways to make a temporary tooth during this process for teeth that show in the smile so you never have to go without teeth in your smile zone.
Recovery time varies depending on factors like bone density, the number of implants, and overall health. Most patients fully recover from the surgery within a few days to two weeks, experiencing only mild to moderate discomfort during the initial healing stages, but the process of osseointegration can take 3-6 months.
Ways Dental Implants Improve Your Life
- Biting and Chewing Functionality: Dental implants provide a stable base for artificial teeth, significantly improving your biting and chewing abilities. This enables you to enjoy your favorite foods easily, promoting better nutrition and digestion.
- Speech: Missing teeth, especially in the front, can heavily impact your speech by causing you to slur words or struggle with pronunciation. Dental implants effectively resolve these issues, giving you the confidence to speak clearly and fluently.
- Oral Health: By filling in the gap left by a missing tooth, dental implants prevent the shifting of neighboring teeth. This helps maintain proper tooth alignment and reduces the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Physical Appearance: Dental implants provide structural support for your jawbone and prevent bone loss. This helps maintain your facial structure and youthful appearance. A complete set of teeth also translates to a confident, attractive smile.
- Comfort: Unlike alternative dental solutions, such as traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants act as an extension of your natural teeth, providing unmatched comfort and durability for everyday use.
Preparing for Dental Implants and Maintaining Oral Health
It’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine before and after receiving dental implants. Follow these tips for optimal results:
- Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Floss daily to remove debris and plaque between teeth
- Regularly visit your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups
- Stop smoking, as it can interfere with the healing process
Dental Implants Mesa AZ
Dental implants offer several benefits, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement. By investing in dental implants, you invest in your overall health, appearance, and well-being. If you are tired of dealing with dentures or have missing teeth that are affecting your overall health and well-being, contact the experts at AZ Max Oral Surgery.
We are Arizona’s leading oral and maxillofacial practice, with four locations throughout the Phoenix East Valley and one in Show Low. Our surgeons are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of oral surgery, including dental implant placement. To learn more about dental implants or the services we offer, please contact us today to schedule a consultation.
If you are searching for dental implants near me, contact AZ Max Oral Surgery! To book an appointment at one of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to helping you transform your smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. That said, your implant-supported teeth may require occasional repair or replacement over time due to wear and tear.
You can’t see the actual implant, but the restoration tooth attached to the implant looks natural. At AZ Max Oral Surgery, our skilled team of professionals use the highest-quality materials available to ensure optimal aesthetic results.
In the hands of a trained specialist, the success rate of dental implants is around 98%. The reported success rate in the hands of less experienced practitioners can be as low as 80%. It is important who places your dental implant. With proper care and maintenance, most patients can enjoy lifelong results from their dental implants. However, individual results may vary.
If a dental implant fails, it will need to be removed and replaced with a new one. Depending on the cause of failure, you may also require additional treatments or surgeries. Your dentist or oral surgeon can help determine the best course of action for your situation.
