The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 92% of Americans between the ages of 20 and 64 have had teeth decay. Dental implants are excellent treatment options for replacing decayed or missing teeth. A growing body of scientific research places its success rate at 98%.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that dentists place deep into the jaw bone to support a crown or abutment. You can screw a single prosthetic tooth or a series of teeth in place. With proper design and care, the dental implant will look, feel and function exactly like your natural teeth.
Here are 3 vital tips to help you pick the right dental implant services.
1. The Dentist’s Experience
The success of your dental implant procedure may rest on the expertise and knowledge of the dentist. Your local dentist should have completed surgical training and gained surgical experience before getting a license.
Find out the dental surgeon’s level of training. How many procedures have they handled over the last year? What is the dentist’s success rate? You can easily find out this information online from their website, review sites, or making a direct call to the dental office.
2. Your Dental Health
First, your dentist will need to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the dental implant procedure. Your dentists will inspect your bone and oral health since your jaw bone acts as a foundation for the implant. Once you lose a tooth, the jaw bone starts to shrink. The dentist may request an X-ray to check if it is healthy and strong enough to hold the implant.
You may also need to address your dental health issues. Brushing and flossing daily can help prevent gum disease and cavities that can derail your treatment plan. Your dentist may also recommend that you quit smoking at least 3 months before surgery. The mouth of a smoker may take longer to heal and has a higher risk of bacterial infections.
3. Type of Dental Implant
There are 3 types of dental implant techniques: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic.
Endosteal sets the implant deep within the jawbone. It is considered the safest method but takes the longest to heal. With the subperiosteal options, the dental implant rests above the jawbone and under your gums. It is ideal for patients with shallow bones, and healing usually takes 1 to 3 months. Zygomatic is the most complex procedure where the metal implant is set on your cheekbones. It takes 4 to 6 months to heal. Your dentist will discuss each option with you and determine which is best, depending on your bone strength and oral health.
Ensure you Choose the Right Provider
Getting a dental implant can significantly improve your quality of life. However, this is only possible if you get it from a reputable dentist. Take time to learn more about the procedure, research the specialist to carry it out, and decide on the right implant option for you. To learn more about dental implant solutions, call Radiant Dentistry today.
