If you are suffering from missing teeth, you don’t need to suffer any longer. Dental implants could be a reliable and long-term solution to your problem.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants consist of artificial tooth roots made of titanium being surgically placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis tooth. Implants provide a strong and durable foundation for artificial teeth that can last for decades with proper care and maintenance.
With the implant being placed into the jawbone, dental implants are designed to fuse to the surrounding bone tissue making them a permanent and reliable solution for tooth replacement.
Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure is a process which will typically involve several steps. Initially, Dr Ayad will complete a full evaluation before a treatment plan is created. During the evaluation, Dr Ayad will assess your oral health, take x-rays and impressions of your teeth and gums and determine if there is enough bone density to support the implants. Based on this evaluation, Dr Ayad will create a customised treatment plan that outlines the number of implants needed, the placement locations, and the type of prosthesis to be attached to the implants.
The next step in the implant procedure is the implant placement. Dr Ayad will make an incision in the gum tissue to access your jawbone and drill a small hole for the implant. The implant will then be placed into the hole and secured with a special screw.
After the implant placement, time will be given for the implant to fuse with the surrounding bone tissue to make a strong foundation for the prosthesis. This process usually takes several months, but during this time you may wear a temporary prosthesis to protect the implant and maintain proper oral function.
Once the implant has fused with the surrounding bone tissue, the final step in the implant procedure is the restoration placement. Dr Ayad will attach a custom-made crown, bridge or denture to your implant, restoring your smile and oral function. The restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth and provide a natural and aesthetic result
Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for implants, and the suitability for the procedure depends on several factors. Generally, a good candidate for dental implants has good overall health, healthy gums, enough bone density to support the implants, and is committed to maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Other factors that may affect your suitability include the location and number of missing teeth, age, and any pre-existing medical conditions that could interfere with healing.
If you have certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or immune disorders, implants may not be suitable for you. Also, if you are a smoker or have a history of heavy alcohol use, you may be at a higher risk of complications and may not be suitable for the procedure.
Alternative treatments for missing teeth include traditional dental bridges or dentures. Dental bridges use the surrounding teeth as anchors to hold the prosthetic tooth in place, while dentures are removable prosthetic devices that sit on top of the gums.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer many benefits if you’re suffering from missing teeth.
Improving Appearance
Implants can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. The prosthetic teeth attached to the implants are custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth so that they blend in seamlessly and provide a natural-looking smile.
Restoring Oral Function
Missing teeth can cause difficulty speaking and may lead to a lisp or other speech impediment. By replacing missing teeth with implants, Dr Ayad may be able to restore your ability to speak clearly and confidently.
Comfortable Option
Dental implants are also more comfortable and convenient than traditional dentures. As they are securely anchored in the jawbone, they do not slip or move around like dentures, which can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Patients with implants can eat, speak, and engage in normal daily activities with greater ease and comfort.
Good Oral Health
Having implants can also be beneficial to your oral health. As they are in the jawbone, they help stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss, which can occur when teeth are missing.
What Are The Risks And Complications?
While implants are generally a safe and effective treatment for missing teeth, there are some risks and complications associated with the procedure. Common complications may include infection, implant failure, nerve damage, and gum recession. You can help prevent these complications by following proper oral hygiene practices and attending regular check-ups with Dr Ayad.
How Do I Look After My Teeth After A Dental Implant?
After any procedure, proper aftercare and maintenance are essential, particularly with implants to ensure long-term success. Dr Ayad will provide you with all the information on what to do immediately following the procedure, such as foods to avoid and pain relief options and inform you how to take good care of your teeth.
You will also need to attend regular check-ups and cleanings to ensure that the implant remains stable and free from any infections.
Are Dental Implants For You?
Overall, Long-term success rates for implants are generally high, with studies showing success rates ranging from 90-95%. If you are a suitable candidate for the implant, please remember this is a long-term solution for missing teeth. You must consider if you can commit to the proper care and maintenance and attend regular check-ups. If this is the case, your implants could last you many years or even a lifetime.
If you’re interested to find out if implants are the right treatment for your dental issues, contact Dr Ayad to book your free consultation.