Did you know that 74% of UK adults will undergo tooth extraction at some point? This type of removal not only affects the confidence of the sufferer on an aesthetic level but can also affect the patient’s speech pattern and ability to eat with ease.
Typically dentures were used as a remedy to those who suffer tooth loss, but thanks to the rise in technology in recent years there are now superior materials and practices available which provide long term, secure tooth replacement.
19% of people who live with tooth loss wear a partial denture, but these are notorious for slipping around the mouth as there is no secure bond between the denture and gum. Dentures must also be removed at night which can negatively affect the confidence of the wearer.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth which is permanently fixed to your jawbone in place of a missing tooth. They are a commonly seen in those who have lost teeth through disease and injury. There are two types of typical dental implants, both of which are made of titanium;
- Endosteal implants are the most commonly used type of dental implant and are placed in the jawbone and are traditionally shaped like screws, cylinders and plates. This type of implant is generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures.
- Subperiosteal dental implants are fitted under the gum, but on top of the jaw with the metal framework’s posts protruding through the gum to hold the implant. These types of implants are used for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures or who have shallow jaw bones.
Am I eligible for Dental Implants?
The majority of those looking for dental implants will be eligible. However, an initial consultation with a dentist is always undertaken to determine the suitability of each patient. You may not be eligible for dental implants if you suffer from;
- Decay
- Abscesses
- Gum disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Mouth cancer
You may have caused damage to your mouth through habits such as smoking and drinking, this also makes fitting dental implants more difficult. It’s important patients disclose any health issues such as these during the consultation.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss which gives the mouth a natural look and feel. Jamie Newlands, who provides dental implants Glasgow explains this;
“Once the replacement teeth are in place, tinted to a shade matching natural teeth, they are nearly impossible to tell apart from natural teeth.”
- Thanks to their design, the implant will never come loose and is always fixed to the jaw bone.
- Unlike dentures, you will not suffer jawbone shrinkage which means further bone loss is prevented.
- You can eat and drink with ease, without the use of denture sealants or the worry that food will be trapped under the denture.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants only need minimal aftercare and a typical oral health regime can be used. This is one of the major benefits of dental implants when compared to traditional dentures. With the right aftercare, your dentures can last a lifetime.
All patients must do is brush and floss twice daily in order to ensure great overall oral health and maintain their dental implants. This ease of aftercare is just one of the many reasons dental implants have grown in popularity in recent years.
Whether you have lost teeth natural disease or injury, suffering with the embarrassment of tooth loss and the frustration of dentures is now no longer necessary. Consult your local dental practice to find out if dental implants are right for you.