Do I Need a Dental Implant? A Comprehensive Guide
Missing a tooth and considering your options? This comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know about dental implants and whether they're the right choice for you. For further insights, get a second opinion at opiniontwo.org.
Table of Contents
- What is a dental implant?
- How are implants placed?
- What is guided implant surgery?
- Why is dental implant placement so important?
- What is involved in guided implant surgery?
- Additional Information and Statistics
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch of teeth. Commonly made from titanium, they've recently been crafted from ceramic too. Implants integrate into the jawbone, creating a sturdy base for crowns or multiple teeth.
How are implants placed?
Using an implant handpiece, sterile saline, and various drills, a space is created in the jawbone for implant placement. Although oral surgeons and periodontists traditionally handle this task, general dentists are now also offering this service. Earlier, a “freehand” technique was used, which could result in misalignment if the dentist wasn't experienced.
What is guided implant surgery?
Thanks to advanced technology, guided implant surgeries have gained popularity for their accuracy. This involves a surgical guide fitting on your neighboring teeth, guiding implant drills through a sleeve. These guides can be milled or 3D-printed. High-end systems, like X-nav, provide a digital guide for the drill, while the Yomi robotic system uses a robotic arm for precise placement.
Why is dental implant placement so important?
Implants must be optimally positioned to mimic natural teeth. Ideally situated equidistant from neighboring teeth and between the cheek and tongue, the implant promotes healthy gum emergence and easy flossing. If there are bone volume inadequacies or anatomical restrictions, it's crucial to know your options. A 3D x-ray best evaluates potential implant sites.
What is involved in guided implant surgery?
A 3D x-ray gauges your bone volume and the structures surrounding the implant site. An intraoral scanner captures your teeth in digital mode. Software then combines these digital models, allowing a virtual placement of the tooth in the gap. The implant is then digitally positioned in the x-rayed bone, determining the surgical guide's fabrication. Although there's a tiny margin of error, guided surgery results are generally predictable.
Additional Information and Statistics
Dental implants provide a permanent solution to missing teeth and bring numerous benefits:
- They don't depend on neighboring teeth, ensuring a stable bite.
- They can improve overall health by preventing gum diseases, malocclusion, and jawbone loss.
- Qualified dentists ensure a high success rate, with implants lasting 20 years or more.
Consider these statistics for a broader perspective:
- Over 35 million Americans are missing at least one tooth.
- Above 10 million Americans have lost all their teeth.
- Dental implants have a 90% success rate after five years.
The costs can be on the higher side, but many dentists offer financial options, and some insurance plans may cover the procedure. Always consult your insurance provider.
Considering dental implants? Get a professional second opinion at opiniontwo.org today.
Dr. Thomas is a general dentist that loves sharing information about all aspects of dentistry, but is passionate about digital and implant dentistry. Dr. Thomas received his DMD degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to find helpful ways to inform and educate people about dental procedures and products.
Are you looking for a second opinion? Dr. Thomas is the CEO of Opinion Two Nonprofit Organization. Opinion Two is available online or on mobile app and it allows patients to receive dental second opinions with top US-licensed dentists. All proceeds are used to benefit future generations of dentists through scholarships and benefits to pre-dental programs.