Losing one or more teeth can significantly impact one’s facial aesthetics and quality of life. Even a single missing tooth can create problems in eating and speaking. Besides, tooth loss also results in bone resorption around the vacant tooth socket, making the jawbones weaker. That is why it essential to get your missing teeth replaced as soon as possible.
When it comes to replacing one or more missing teeth, you have several options to choose from, such as removable dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. However, if we talk about a reliable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasant tooth replacement option, dental implants are undoubtedly the best. This article explains everything you need to know about dental implants and why they should be your first choice for missing tooth replacement.
Can You Have Dental Implants With Receding Gums?
According to the Oral Health Foundation, an implant is a screw-shaped metallic fixture inserted directly into the jawbone – to serve as replacement roots. Dental implants rely on their bond with the surrounding bone for stability and retention. Therefore, the more firmly they are anchored within the jawbone, the better the support they will provide to the false teeth attached to them.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum recession indicates an underlying periodontal infection. Gum recession occurs because of the toxins released by the harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, which destroy the fibres that attach our teeth to the gums and the bone.
Besides, widespread destruction of the underlying jawbone makes it difficult for the implant to anchor and support artificial teeth firmly. Therefore, you should only consider getting implants once your underlying dental problems have been treated. Otherwise, it could lead to complications, including premature implant failure.
Will Getting Dentures Stop Gum Disease?
Like all tooth replacement options, you should only get dentures when you are free from gum infection. The reason is that the removable dentures rely mainly on the underlying bone for their retention and support. If the jawbone is already damaged due to periodontal inflammation, wearing dentures may accelerate bone resorption, causing even more complications.
That is why dental experts only allow their patients to wear dentures once they have treated all their underlying dental issues.
How Long Can You Keep Your Teeth With Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease can be easily managed and reversed during its early stages. However, as it progresses, it causes widespread damage to the gums and the jawbone that supports our teeth. The fibres that connect our teeth to the gums and the jawbone are destroyed over time, making the teeth mobile, in addition to causing gum recession and cavities on the root surface. Ultimately, untreated, advanced stage periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. So, it all depends on how fast the periodontal disease is progressing. The good news is that you avoid periodontal disease by ensuring optimal oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups.
How Long Do Dental Implants Take To Heal?
Typically, it takes three to four months for healthy bone to form around the implant and the surgical site to heal completely. Once your dentist confirms that sufficient healing has taken place, they will attach a suitable prosthesis over it – dental crowns, bridges or dentures – to replace the missing teeth.
Placement of dental implants is a surgical process that is performed under local anaesthesia. Your dentist will first make an incision over the soft tissues covering the jawbone where the implant is to be inserted.
Afterwards, they will drill a hole in the bone, followed by careful implant placement at the desired position. Once the implant has been inserted, your dentist will place a healing collar over it to ensure uninterrupted healing.
Recovery of the surgical implant site also depends on various factors such as your oral health and overall general health status, and any medications you might be taking for underlying medical conditions.
How Long Do Implant Crowns Last?
Dentists replace a single missing tooth by attaching a crown over the implants, this can often be a zirconia crown. The zirconia crowns not only possess natural aesthetics but are also highly durable and safe for use in the oral cavity. Research has shown that the zirconia crowns are least likely to crack under heavy biting forces. With optimal oral hygiene maintenance and care, you can expect the implant-supported zirconia crowns to last for a long time – over 10-15 years.
How Long Does The Implant Itself Last?
Dental implants are made in the form of titanium posts, which possess excellent durability and strength. According to the research, dental implants have a 10-year success rate of more than 95%.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth and gums. Simply maintain optimal oral hygiene through brushing and flossing, and you won’t have to worry about your natural or implant-supported teeth. According to the American Dental Association, your implants can last for a lifetime with proper oral care and maintenance.
Dental implants look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth. That is why, if you are thinking about getting your missing teeth replaced, you should consider dental implants.
At Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge in Dublin D4, our topmost priority is to offer the highest quality dental services to our patients. Whether you need the replacement of a single, multiple, or all your teeth, we can help you get a healthy and beautiful smile with dental implant treatment. So, book an appointment with us today and let us give you the smile of your dreams.
