About Dental Implants
Henderson, NV
Dental implants are a fairly common dental procedure, being placed over five million times each year. This is a type of prosthesis used to replace a tooth that has been lost due to gum disease, injuries, failed root canals, and other dental conditions.
Dental implants are titanium-made artificial tooth roots surgically planted into the jaw to replace a person’s missing teeth and prevent jawbone loss. They can restore a person’s chewing ability and enhance their appearance.
Once the dental implants are implanted into the jawbone, artificial teeth like crowns, bridges, and dentures are attached to them using abutments.
Types Of Dental Implants
Dental Implant Placement
First, we need to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. This decision is based on the type of prosthesis that is going to be supported by the implants, the amount and quality of existing bone, current jaw structure and inter-arch space, and your overall health. This information is interpreted by Joshua M. Ignatowicz, DMD, DICOI and presented to you. For these reasons, it is important to choose a highly-trained and experienced doctor who uses only the highest quality materials.
There are two kinds of processes for dental implants: tooth extraction followed by implant, or immediate implants. Immediate implants are a highly sought-after service. Following tooth extraction, the implants and temporary abutment and crowns are immediately placed. You may be a candidate for an immediate implant if there is adequate existing bone.
Many people have been missing a tooth for over a year, or don’t have adequate bone to support a dental implant. In this case, bone must be created through a process called bone grafting. A bone graft placement at time of extraction can help strengthen the existing bone structure and ready it for implant placement.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The technology used in dental implant procedures has advanced to the extent that dental implants rarely fail due to rejection or functionality. Dental implant screws can last very long if you follow good oral hygiene practices.
However, the crown attached to the implants may need to be replaced after approximately 10 to 15 years. This can occur because the crown is exposed and more actively used to chew food. This makes it more susceptible to damage than the implant.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants have been successfully used in dentistry for a long time now. When performed by experienced professionals with reliable technology, there are very few risks associated with dental implant surgeries for people in good health.
However, no medical procedure is completely risk-free. Before opting for a dental implant procedure, some risks you should know about include infections at the implant site, titanium allergies, and corrosion of titanium if exposed to acidic oral conditions.
Dental Implant Recovery And Outlook
Recovery is individually based on factors such as the number of dental implants placed, bone health (including the need for bone grafting), overall patient health, and adherence to post-surgical care instructions. Dr. Ignatowicz will provide a detailed recovery plan for you following you procedure. In general, this includes things such as ice, directions for oral hygiene, diet, medication, and lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking for a few weeks after the procedure.
Although nothing will function as well as healthy, natural teeth, dental implants do function better than removable teeth. Most patients eat, talk, and smile without even being aware of the implants. It is true that a dental implant could last for the rest of your lifetime. The longevity of a dental implant is determined by the overall health of the patient and their level of commitment to good oral hygiene.
Why Should You Consider Dental Implants?
There are several ways to replace missing teeth without an invasive procedure, such as bridges and dentures. However, artificial teeth not supported by implants may keep slipping or strain your neighboring teeth and require extra care than just regular brushing and flossing.
On the other hand, dental implants are a permanent replacement for your natural teeth as they are fixed to your jawbone.
Am I A Good Candidate For Implants?
Anyone with good overall health, strong jawbone and gums, and a healthy oral routine is an ideal candidate for dental implants.
You might not immediately be able to undergo dental implant surgery under the following conditions.
- You suffer from a pre-existing chronic medical condition like diabetes or heart disease.
- Your jawbone tissue is not enough to hold the implant.
- Your gums are not in a healthy condition.
However, the above conditions don’t mean you will necessarily have to opt out of dental implant surgery.
If you suffer from periodontal disease, Joshua M. Ignatowicz, DMD, DICOI at Joshua M. Ignatowicz DMD & Associates will suggest a treatment before clearing you for the dental implant surgery. If you don’t have enough bone tissue, you may have to undergo a bone graft procedure before the dental implant surgery.
In the case of pre-existing chronic conditions, you will have to talk to your dentist to evaluate if this surgery is right for you.
Schedule A Henderson Implant Appointment Today!
Dental implants are a convenient, long-term option to replace missing teeth and restore your smile.
Contact us at 702-473-5100 to schedule an appointment with Joshua M. Ignatowicz, DMD, DICOI today!