When a person is struggling with their teeth, it’s often difficult to know what the issue is and how it can best be fixed. The struggle is made particularly hard when the person does not like the dentist – a fear many of us live with. It’s a completely rational fear, but it can be made easier when you visit a dental practice that goes the extra mile to put you at ease. Finding a dentist you respect and trust is the first and most important step in any dental journey.
It is also important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all option for dentistry. You should approach this process with an open mind. Our mouths are all completely unique and will require personal attention. However, there is a solution that is suitable for many and that some people will not have heard about: dental implants. The following information should help you learn more about this revolutionary treatment and decide if it could be a suitable option for you.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are an alternative to removable dentures. They are fixed into the jaw as a permanent solution. You can either have a dental implant placed for a singular tooth, or you can have a full arch of dental implants placed together, for example as a teeth replacement for your whole upper jaw.
The process of dental implants being fitted includes titanium screws being drilled into the jaw bone to support the tooth replacement, whether that be a singular denture or a full bridge of teeth. Whilst it sounds like a treatment that would be painful, with the right dentist, it is not always as gruelling as it seems.
How long does a treatment take?
The lengthiest part of any dental implants treatment is the preparation process. The precision when it comes to implants needs to be absolutely impeccable. After all, the replacement is going to be in the patient’s mouth for (potentially) more than 25 years, so it needs to fit perfectly. Each jaw bone and each new set of dentures to be fitted are unique, which is why the time needs to be taken at the preparation stage to ensure everything is done correctly.
Most of the time, any journey towards getting implants will begin with a consultation with a dental practice. At this stage, your teeth will be assessed by a professional and the treatment can be properly and professionally planned out.
The fitting of dental implants is surprisingly swift. A full dental bridge can be placed in as little as three hours’ time, although this does vary from dentist to dentist.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they keep the jaw bone preserved, preventing any further deterioration of the structure that can sometimes be caused by other options, such as removable dentures.
Secondly, this solution looks and behaves like natural teeth. Implants are strong and durable, sitting right on the line of the gum where your natural teeth would. The way the implant is screwed into your gum almost gives the tooth an anchor, keeping it stable and in place at all times. It’s an alternative to a natural root, essentially.
Finally, they tend to give confidence and a higher quality of life to those who have this treatment. They don’t limit what you can eat, they give a bright and clear smile and they are comfortable. These are advantages not all other denture alternatives could offer.
If you’re considering a dental implant treatment, speak to your local dental practice. They will be able to help you, or if they can’t (as this is a specialised area of dentistry), they will refer you to a dentist who can.
