Queensbay Dental Surgery

Dental Implants

Are you missing a permanent tooth? Do you wear dentures and experience some embarassing moments? You may be a candidate for dental implants, an alternative to missing teeth. Dental implants use your jaw to hold a tooth replacement or bridge, rather than anchoring it to a healthy, neighboring tooth. The results are natural-looking teeth implants that look, feel and function as your own! Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge.

Is dental implant safe?

According to the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontists, implants are made of biologically compatible materials which have undergone extensive testing over a period of several years. Since these materials are largely metals, such as titanium, and have never been living tissue, there is no likelihood of causing body rejection similar to that which sometimes occurs with heart and kidney transplants.

Are you a suitable candidate for implant?

Your current dental health will influence whether you’re a good candidate for a dental implants.You must also commit to a strict schedule of flossing, brushing,rinsing, and check-ups to keep them healthy. Some medical conditions may interfere with normal healing, such as diabetes or heart problems. Make sure your medical illness is under control before you embark on implant therapy. Besides, the supporting bone in your jaw must be healthy; if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, the success rate for your dental implants will drop. Less success also is noted in smokers. Finally, a complete examination and X-rays by your dentist will determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

How long can implant lasts?

Technology gets the credit for this exciting alternative to missing teeth, dentures and bridges. Researchers noticed in the 1950s that titanium and some other materials formed a strong bond to the bone. That gave rise to the use of dental implants. Today, there are patients who have had dental implants for more than 25 years.Under proper conditions, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.