Are Dental Implants Right for You Eight Facts to Help You Decide
Many people today deal with the embarrassment and discomfort of missing teeth. Whether you are experiencing this problem due to accidents, injuries, gum disease, or other issues, you're well aware of the consequences that can come about from missing teeth. Are you aware of the number one recommended solution for this problem? Statistics indicate that dental implants remain the top treatment choice for dealing with the problem of missing teeth. Due to many positive aspects that implants offer, they have become well-respected as the top solution to a common dental problem that affects millions of people. In addition to being comfortable, safe, and permanent, dental implants are also the most natural way to restore functionality and beauty to your smile. Although dental implants are easily considered the most reliable and long-lasting way to address the problem of missing teeth, there are a few things you need to know before deciding to get them. The following information contains eight facts about dental implants that can help you determine if they may be a good fit for your needs. If you're in search of reliable information regarding Los Angeles dental implants, continue reading below for some important facts. 1
Dental Implants Require a Healthy Environment Before getting dental implants, a qualified dentist is required to perform a complete evaluation of your mouth, teeth, gums, and the underlying bones in this area. Dental implants require placement in a healthy oral environment. If you do have any underlying issues or problems, these may need to be properly addressed before you can have your implants placed. You Must Continue to Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene Some people may be under the impression that dental implants don't require brushing, flossing, or preventative dental care but this is simply not the case. Although they are not natural teeth, implants still require the same high standard of oral hygiene as your natural teeth and gums need. You will still need regular dental screenings on a continual basis. One positive aspect, however, is that your implants will last for years to come with proper care. 2
Dental Implants Do Much more Than Fill an Empty Gap When many people think of dental implants, they may think their only purpose is to fill an empty gap where a natural tooth used to be. This is most certainly a vital function that implants serve, but they also do so much more for the health of the mouth. Unlike other solutions for missing teeth such as dentures, implants provide a permanent solution that has a natural look. Implants are very aesthetically pleasing. In fact, the majority of people will not be able to tell them apart from your natural teeth. Lastly, dental implants help stimulate the bone in which they are inserted, keeping it healthy and strong. Dental Implants are Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution Many people are surprised to learn that there are many different types of dental implants. Some are designed to replace a single tooth while others replace several missing teeth in a row. For patients who are allergic to specific materials, dental implants can be made of alternate materials and metals. Traditional dental implants are often made of titanium or surgical steel rods. All on 4 dental implants provide a unique way of covering a larger space with fewer actual implants and incisions. As opposed to traditional implants, All on 4 dental implants replace an entire arch at one time, allowing for a less invasive procedure and faster healing. 3
Dental Implants May Be Contraindicated with Some Health Conditions It is vital that you let your Los Angeles dentist know about any health conditions you may have or medication that you take. This includes natural supplements that you may use as well. Existing health conditions, medications, and supplements can all have a huge impact on the outcome of your procedure. It is only with awareness of these conditions that your dental team will be able to make the best decisions regarding your care. Dental Implants Carry a Small Degree of Risk All medical procedures, including dental implants, carry some degree of risk. You should be aware, however, that dental implants are considered remarkably safe. In addition to their excellent safety record, there are further steps you can take to ensure an even better experience and outcome. For example, if you smoke or use tobacco, be aware that discontinuing these practices will enhance your experience and help you heal much faster. Uncontrolled diabetes and other health conditions that impact healing should be brought under control before your procedure begins. This will ensure that you have the best results possible. Your Los Angeles dentist can discuss all benefits and risks with you in advance. 4
You Must Know What's Involved in the Procedure Although having dental implants placed is considered a surgical procedure, it is not a major surgery. For the most part, the majority of individuals who get implants heal very quickly without much discomfort at all. Compared to other types or oral surgeries, the downtime with this procedure is very limited for most people Placing Dental Implants Takes Time The procedure of having implants placed takes time, but most people find it is well worth the effort. The first step involves having a complete investigation done to determine the health of your mouth, gums, and underlying bone. This may involve imaging tests such as x-rays and similar diagnostic testing. At a separate appointment, your dental team will take a complete mold of your mouth so that realistic looking implants can be created just for you. These are made to the precise specifications of your existing teeth so that the implants look as natural as possible. It may take several weeks for your implants to be ready and shipped to your dentist. Once they arrive, you will have yet another appointment for the actual surgical placement of the implants. This process may take several hours to complete. From start to finish, it's not unusual for the process of obtaining implants to take several months to complete. However, you will have a permanent solution to a troublesome and uncomfortable issue when everything has been completed. Are you ready to improve the functionality and beauty of your smile with dental implants? If you're considering Los Angeles dental implants, call Southland Dental Care today to schedule your dental implants consultation. Financing options with low monthly payments are also available for your convenience today. Let the professional team at Southland Dental Care help you restore your self-esteem and peace of mind with dental implants. 5