Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. But they’re not right for everyone. Find out when they’re medically necessary.
When are Dental Implants Medically Necessary?
Dental implants are often considered a cosmetic procedure, but there are instances when they may be medically necessary. One common reason is to replace a tooth that has been lost due to an injury. Another reason is to support a dental prosthetic, such as a denture or bridge.
In some cases, dental implants can be used to improve the function of the jaw. This may be necessary if there is damage to the jawbone due to an injury or disease. Dental implants can also be used to treat sleep apnea.
The decision to get dental implants is usually made by a dentist or oral surgeon. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor to ensure that it is the right decision for you.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are quickly becoming the preferred choice for people needing to replace one or more missing teeth. And it’s no wonder. Implants offer a number of advantages over other tooth replacement options:
Looks and Feels Like Your Own Teeth
Because dental implants fuse to your jawbone, they provide stable support for artificial teeth. Implants also allow you to chew and speak with confidence, knowing that your teeth aren’t going to slip or move.
Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Once the implants fuse to your jawbone, they provide stable support for artificial teeth.
Preserves Facial Structure
Tooth loss can cause your face to sag and make you look older. Dental implants help to preserve the natural shape of your face and prevent the bone loss that can occur when you lose teeth.
Improves Oral Health
Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Learn more about the dental bridge procedure. Because dental implants fuse to your jawbone, they provide stable support for artificial teeth and help preserve the bone. This means that your other teeth aren’t affected, and you have a smaller chance of developing gum disease.
Is a Long-Term Solution
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime! If you are missing one or more teeth, contact your dentist to see if dental implants are right for you.
How Does The Dental Implant Process Work?
The first step in the dental implant process is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. During the consultation, your dentist will take X-rays and perform a thorough examination of your mouth.
If you are determined to be a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is to have a CT scan. This scan will be used to create a 3D model of your mouth so that your dentist can plan the placement of the implants.
Once the implants are placed, you will need to wait for them to fuse with the jawbone. This can take several months. During this time, you will be fitted with a temporary denture or bridge.
Once the implants have fused with the jawbone, you will return to the dentist to have the abutments placed. The abutments are small metal connectors that will hold the new tooth in place.
After the abutments are placed, you will need to wait for the gums to heal. Once the gums have healed, you will return to the dentist to have the new tooth (or teeth) placed.
The entire dental implant process can take several months, but it is worth it for the long-term results. Dental implants are strong, durable, and natural-looking. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
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