Everyone wants to have a beautiful, complete smile. But what do you do if your teeth are so damaged that they need to be replaced, or if you have a tooth or teeth that fall out due to injury or illness? Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth.

What are dental implants?

The procedure involves placing a metal post in the jawbone, which serves as a foundation for a replacement tooth. Typically, dental implants are a good choice for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, disease, or decay. The implants are strong and durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Implants are an investment in your oral health and overall wellbeing.  

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants are a popular solution to missing teeth, but how do they work? The first step is to have an initial consultation with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are, the next step is to have a small titanium post placed into your jawbone. Once the post is in place, it will need to fuse with your jawbone, which can take several months. Once the fusion is complete, your dentist can place a tooth-colored cap on top of the post, giving you a natural-looking smile.

The benefits of dental implants

Dental implants are quickly becoming the preferred choice for tooth replacement. There are many benefits that make dental implants a more attractive option than other methods, such as dentures or bridges.

One of the most significant benefits of dental implants is that they provide a more natural look and feel. When done correctly, dental implants blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth. This provides a much more aesthetically pleasing result than either dentures or bridges.

Another significant benefit of dental implants is that they are much more comfortable than either dentures or bridges. Dental implants do not require the use of any adhesives, and they will not slip or move around in your mouth as dentures can. This means you can eat and speak without worrying about your teeth coming loose.

Finally, dental implants are much easier to care for than dentures or bridges.

The different types of dental implants

Three different types of dental implants are commonly used.

• Endosteal implant

  This is the most common type of implant. It is placed in the jawbone and is usually made of titanium.

• Subperiosteal implant

  This implant is placed under the gum tissue but on top of the jawbone. This implant is often used for people with a lot of bone loss.

• Zygomatic implant

  This type of implant is placed in the cheekbone and is used for people who have lost all or most of their teeth.

The best candidates for dental implants

The best candidates for dental implants are those who have good oral health and healthy gums. For example, if you are a smoker, you will want to quit before considering dental implants. Those who have had previous dental work such as crowns, bridges, or dentures may also be good candidates for dental implants. The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants is to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon.

Dental implants can genuinely increase your quality of life if you have missing or damaged teeth. They can improve the function and appearance of the teeth and also help preserve the jawbone. However, it is important to remember that these procedures are not suitable for everyone, and you must consult a qualified dentist to see if they are a good option for you. In order to know if you are a good candidate for dental implant services, call the expert dentists at Coral West Dental in Coralville, Iowa, and set up a consultation to get your smile back!