The Comprehensive Guide to Dental Implants
Understanding dental implants can be crucial for many, given the statistics on missing teeth and the popularity of this dental solution. Dive deep into the realm of dental implants with our guide below.
Table of Contents
- What are Dental Implants?
- Why Do I Need an Implant?
- Why are Dental Implants Recommended?
- Alternatives to Dental Implants
- Procedure and Pain Management
- Key Dental Implant Statistics
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are versatile tools in dentistry, capable of replacing a single tooth, several teeth, or even a full arch. Typically made of titanium, these implants are inserted into the jawbone, letting your body integrate around them before attaching crowns or multiple teeth. While titanium remains the most popular material, ceramic implants are also making an appearance in the industry.
Why Do I Need an Implant?
Dentists recommend implants for a plethora of reasons. You might need an implant due to a severely broken tooth, a large cavity, a fractured tooth root, or perhaps a baby tooth that won't last a lifetime.
Why are Dental Implants Recommended?
With a success rate higher than many dental procedures, dental implants stand out as a preferred method for tooth replacement. They offer a permanent solution, often preventing the need for removable teeth.
Alternatives to Dental Implants
Though dental implants are highly recommended, they aren't the only solution. Consider these alternatives:
- Dental Bridge: Useful if you have neighboring teeth around a missing one. However, it involves more teeth, and if issues arise with any of them, the entire bridge is compromised.
- Removable Partial Denture: A non-permanent solution that's less comfortable and might not offer the same eating efficiency as fixed options. It also might appear less natural due to metal hooks.
- Conventional Dentures: Ideal for missing arches of teeth, but they don't fit snugly over time and don't promote efficient chewing. They can also get lost or break due to frequent removal.
Procedure and Pain Management
Fear not, for dental implant procedures are typically pain-free, thanks to local anesthetics. The bone is kept cool with ample water when drilling for the implant, and the process can last about an hour. Post-procedure healing can take anywhere between 3 to 6 months, depending on several factors, including the specific procedure and location within the mouth.
Key Dental Implant Statistics
- The success rate for dental implants is astoundingly high at over 95%, as reported by the American Dental Association.
- About 25% of US adults have at least one missing tooth, and this percentage rises to 40% for those above 65.
- In 2020, over 3.5 million dental implants were placed in the US, a number expected to rise as awareness grows.
- The average dental implant costs between $3,000 and $5,000 but can last over 20 years with appropriate care.
- Dental implants do more than just fill gaps; they enhance smiles, chewing capabilities, and overall oral health.
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.