Missing teeth are a common problem, with Australians over the age of 15 missing an average of 5 teeth. Dental implants are a sought-after solution for individuals grappling with damaged or absent teeth, helping to restore a complete smile along with confidence in your appearance. This treatment involves the insertion of a small, robust titanium alloy screw into the jawbone. Once the dental implant and jawbone have fused, it enables the secure fixation of a dental crown or other prosthetic. The advantages of dental implants surpass those of alternative treatments, and with proper care they are very durable.
Why is it Essential to Replace Missing Teeth?
The loss of teeth can result from various factors, including trauma, decay and gum disease. Aside from affecting appearance and complicating eating, missing teeth can lead to adverse consequences for your overall oral health.
A healthy tooth’s root serves as a foundation and support for the jawbone. Neglecting to replace a lost tooth eventually triggers bone loss, potentially causing a weakened jaw and altered facial appearance. Moreover, missing teeth render neighbouring teeth susceptible to decay and increased wear. There is also an increased incidence of periodontal disease (gum disease). Finally, the absence of a tooth may prompt surrounding teeth to shift, altering the bite.
It is best to replace missing teeth in a timely manner, as this will allow you to maintain good oral health and restore confidence in your appearance.
The Advantages of Opting for Dental Implants
Choosing dental implants for the replacement of lost or damaged teeth offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Appearance and Self Confidence: A missing tooth can dent an individual’s confidence and impact both personal and professional life. Dental implants resemble natural teeth, so they can restore a beautiful looking smile whilst boosting your morale.
- Optimal Oral Health: Replacing missing teeth prevents issues with chewing, teeth shifting and bone loss. Dental implants are investment in your oral health, giving you the best chance of maintaining a healthy smile for life.
- Improved Comfort: Dental implants allow you to enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about pain, discomfort or the awkward feeling associated with a smile gap.
Who Qualifies for Dental Implants
With a high success rate, dental implants are suitable for most individuals. Eligibility hinges on factors such as a fully developed and healthy jawbone and gums, crucial for successful osseointegration – the fusion of living bone and the titanium dental implants.
Factors that may affect eligibility include smoking, gum disease, heavy drinking, regular antibiotic use, diabetes and patient who is taking medication for osteoporosis. Individuals who have recently lost a tooth can seek an evaluation at Glowing Smiles Dental to determine their candidacy for dental implants. In the event that implants are deemed unsuitable, your dentist will propose alternative tooth replacement options.
The Dental Implants Procedure
The dental implant process spans multiple visits over approximately nine months, and it involves:
- X-rays and CT scans – an assessment of your jawbone to determine implant placement.
- Possible bone grafting & Implant surgery – The dental implant will be fitted to the jawbone with or without additional bone grafting procedure prior.
- Waiting Period – You will need to allow 3-6 months for healing and osseointegration.
- Dental Abutment – The dental abutment will be placed.
- Dental Crown – an artificial tooth (dental crown) using a mould of the mouth will be created.
- Fixing the Dental Crown – The crown will be affixed to the implant.
Dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 96%, and providing you follow a diligent oral care routine and attend regular check-ups, they can endure a lifetime.
Missing Teeth? Glowing Smiles Dental Offer Replacement Solutions
Whether you are missing a single or multiple teeth, there are various tooth replacement options available. If you wish to restore a complete smile and full functionality, dental implants are ideal.
Contact Glowing Smiles Dental today to book a consultation to confirm your eligibility for dental implants and discuss the next steps.
