Imagine a world where you never have to worry about hiding your smile; a world where you can confidently dine out, talk, and laugh with your friends and family. At the office of Steven C. Hewett, DDS in Champions Gate, FL, we help you turn that dream into reality with implants. Are they right for you? Come talk to us, so we can help you evaluate your specific situation, and keep reading to learn more about what dental implants are who they’re right for.
Understanding Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process known as osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants are a revolutionary way to restore the form and function of your teeth and have become the gold standard for tooth replacement.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Implants?
Assessing Your Oral Health
Before determining if you are a good candidate for implants, we thoroughly assess your oral health. We examine the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone to ensure they can support the dental implant. Healthy gums and adequate bone density are essential for the success of the procedure. Conditions such as periodontal disease or significant bone loss may require additional treatments before you can receive implants.
Gum Health: A Strong Foundation
Your gums play a crucial role in supporting the dental implant. Healthy gums free of inflammation or infection are necessary for the procedure’s success. If you suffer from gum disease, we can recommend periodontal treatments to restore the health of your gums and provide a strong foundation for the dental implant.
Jawbone Density: Anchoring Your Implant
The jawbone is the anchor for your dental implant. To ensure a stable and long-lasting result, the jawbone must have sufficient density to support the implant. In cases where bone loss has occurred due to missing teeth or other factors, we may recommend bone grafting to rebuild the jawbone and create a solid foundation for the implant.
Age Considerations: Timing Matters
Implants are a suitable option for adults of all ages. However, they are not recommended for children or adolescents whose jaws are still growing. Once growth has stopped, usually around the age of 18 for females and 21 for males, implants can be considered as a viable option for tooth replacement.
Overall Health: Setting the Stage for Success
In addition to oral health, your overall health plays a role in determining if implants are right for you. Chronic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders may affect the body’s ability to heal and integrate the implant. We’ll discuss your medical history with you to ensure that implants are a safe and appropriate option.
Lifestyle Considerations
Commitment to Oral Hygiene: A Lasting Investment
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of implants. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups help ensure that your implant remains healthy and functional for years to come. A commitment to maintaining your oral health is crucial in making the most of your dental implant investment.
Smoking and Implants: A Risky Combination
Smoking can negatively impact the success of implants, as it hinders the healing process and increases the risk of complications. If you are a smoker, we strongly encourage you to quit before undergoing the dental implant procedure to maximize the chances of success and promote optimal healing.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide numerous benefits that make them an attractive option for tooth replacement. They function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Implants also preserve the integrity of the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining your facial structure. Furthermore, implants are a long-lasting solution, with the potential to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Additional benefits include:
Superior Comfort and Stability
One of the most significant advantages of implants is the superior comfort and stability they provide. Unlike traditional dentures, which can become loose and cause discomfort or irritation, implants are anchored firmly to the jawbone, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. This stability allows you to enjoy your favorite foods and speak without the worry of slipping or clicking, enhancing your overall quality of life.
Preservation of Adjacent Teeth
Implants are an excellent option for preserving the health of adjacent teeth. In contrast to dental bridges, which require the grinding down of neighboring teeth to support the false tooth, implants stand alone and do not rely on the support of other teeth. This ensures that your healthy teeth remain intact, reducing the risk of future dental problems.
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants can also contribute to improved oral health. Since they replace the tooth root, they stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss that often occurs after tooth extraction. Additionally, the gap left by a missing tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and potential bite problems. Implants help maintain the proper spacing and alignment of your teeth, preventing further complications and promoting better overall oral health.
When Are Implants Necessary?
Tooth Loss
Severe tooth decay or advanced periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. In these cases, implants can be an effective solution to replace the missing tooth and restore your smile.
Trauma or Injury
Accidents or injuries can result in the loss of one or more teeth. Implants provide a reliable and long-lasting solution for restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile after tooth loss due to trauma.
Congenital Problems
Some people are born with missing teeth. Implants can be used to replace these congenitally missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and functional solution.
What Happens If I Ignore the Problem?
If you choose not to get a dental implant after losing a tooth, several potential consequences may arise:
Bone Loss
When a tooth is missing, the jawbone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root, leading to bone resorption. This can cause the jawbone to weaken and lose density over time, potentially affecting the stability of neighboring teeth and altering your facial structure.
Shifting Teeth
The gap left by a missing tooth can result in the neighboring teeth drifting into the empty space, leading to misalignment and bite problems. This can make it more difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene and increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Reduced Functionality
Missing teeth can make it more challenging to chew and speak properly, impacting your overall quality of life. Implants can restore the function of your teeth, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence and ease.
Lower Self-esteem
The appearance of missing teeth can negatively impact your self-esteem and confidence. Implants can provide a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing solution, helping you regain your confidence and enjoy a beautiful smile.
Begin Your Journey to a More Confident Smile
You deserve a smile that reflects the vibrant, radiant person you are. Schedule a consultation with us at the office of Steven C. Hewett, DDS in Champions Gate, FL today. We are committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams with implants. Schedule your dental implant consultation and rediscover the joy of smiling.
