If you have missing teeth as a result of tooth decay or trauma, dental implants can go a long way toward improving your smile and overall oral health. For those who may not be as familiar with dental implants, they are artificial tooth roots, typically made from titanium, which serves as a base for one or more artificial teeth. Studies show that the success rate for this type of dental restoration is over 98 percent as long as they are well-maintained, which is usually a matter of brushing twice per day, flossing, and scheduling regular checkups with a licensed dentist.
What You Should Know About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are made up of three critical components, which include the following:
Implants – Although commonly thought as a singular dental device, the implant, in reality, is the titanium post that is attached to the jawbone and acts as a supporting foundation for the artificial tooth, commonly referred to as a crown.
Abutments – This component is used to fasten the crown to the implant after it has successfully fused to the patient’s jawbone, a process commonly referred to in dentistry as osseointegration.
Crowns – This component, which can be made to resemble one’s natural teeth, is attached to the abutment and improves the appearance and overall function of the tooth.
It is important to note that the most visible components of a dental implant are also the ones that are most susceptible to being damaged. Therefore, if an implant is going to fail prematurely due to trauma, for example, the crown and abutment are often the first to go. However, several factors can also cause the implant itself to fail prematurely, some of which include
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Inadequate bone density
- Periodontal disease
Implants can also fail prematurely if the procedure was performed by an inexperienced dentist. That said, you should exercise due diligence to ensure that you are working with a licensed and experienced dentist if you’re considering this type of dental restoration procedure.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Implants?
Generally speaking, anyone who is reasonably healthy and has a desire to fill the space left behind from missing teeth should consider implants as they are much better than older restoration procedures, such as a dental bridge, for example. Unlike a dental bridge, these devices do not slip and do a better job when it comes to withstanding biting and chewing pressure. However, implants are typically not recommended for those diagnosed with diabetes, HIV, AIDS, cancer, or other chronic health problems as they can cause them to fail prematurely.
How Long Do Implants Last?
Assuming there are no extenuating circumstances, such as gum disease or trauma, for example, there is really no reason why an implant wouldn’t last a lifetime. Of course, it is worth noting that the crown and the abutment are typically rated to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years as they tend to become worn after this amount of time. When this happens, they no longer fit quite as snug to the abutment and will become increasingly susceptible to falling out. The location within the mouth where the implant is placed will also play a role in how long it will ultimately last as well. Studies show that these dental restorations tend to last longer when placed in toward the front of the mouth as opposed to the rear. This is because more pressure will be placed on rear implants when an individual chews food.
Bottom Line
When dental implants are done correctly, they can last for years. Also, they are almost as strong as natural teeth, meaning you no longer have to deprive yourself of the foods that you may have once enjoyed eating as they are more reliable than other types of dental restorations, especially when it comes to hard foods like apples and raw vegetables, for example. Also worth noting, dental technology has advanced to the point where even those who don’t have enough bone to support a dental implant can still get them by first undergoing bone grafting, a procedure used to replace and regenerate lost bone tissue.
If you would like to learn more about how implants can improve the appearance and function of your teeth, consider scheduling a consultation with Dental Specialty Associates, a well-regarded dental practice with offices in both Gilbert and Phoenix that have, collectively, performed countless implant procedures. It is also worth noting that both facilities offer sedation for those who may be struggling with a fair bit of dental anxiety. For more information, contact us today.
