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| Ravichandra Juluri, DDS |
By Ravichandra Juluri, DDS, Maple Shade Dental Group
Lost or missing teeth can have a serious moment-to-moment impact on your life. Without all your teeth firmly in place, you may have difficulty eating, speaking, and smiling. You are also at an increased risk of bone loss and, if several teeth are missing, your appearance may be altered. These effects can cause damage both mentally and physically, meaning finding a viable solution is crucial to your health. Over the last 20 years, dental experts have perfected tooth replacement in the form of the dental implant. Dental implants are not only well-made replicas of your natural teeth, they also deliver natural function — it’s as if you never lost any of your teeth.
Uncovering viable tooth replacements is an essential science. Nearly 70 percent of the adult population is suffering from the loss of at least one permanent tooth due to accidents, tooth decay, or gum disease. Over the past two decades, dental experts have perfected the dental implant to be an ideal solution.
Dental implants are made from titanium alloy and can replace one or several teeth. This procedure involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which is fitted with a crown to exactly replicate the appearance of a natural tooth. Over time, the titanium fuses with the jawbone and the implant essentially becomes part of the body. This effect ensures that the implant not only lasts a lifetime, but that it preserves all the functions of the teeth and protects the health of the bone and surrounding tissue.
Dental implants have a 95 percent success rate and are a suitable option for most healthy adults. Dental implants cost less than dentures and bridges, when you consider that they rarely have to be replaced. Most dentures and bridges have to be replaced two to three times in a lifetime.
Most patients report positive outcomes with dental implants. Due to the natural feel and function of implants, patients can return to their normal lifestyle; there are no limitations of food choices, activities, or the need to “re-learn” speaking, laughing, or chewing. And, dental implants ensure that you look as good as you feel, supporting the facial structure, too.
Qualifications for Dental Implants
Healthy individuals whose teeth, gums, and tissues have reached full physical maturity and have experienced tooth loss are all candidates for dental implants. Your dentist will review your medical history carefully and discuss your lifestyle to ensure dental implants are the best choice for you. Some considerations include:
- Existing medical conditions: Patients with poorly managed hypertension or diabetes may not be the ideal candidates for dental implants. Your dentist can help you assess your condition to determine success of the procedure.
- Dental issues: Patients susceptible to cavities or who suffer from gum disease are still candidates for dental implants. Your dentist can work with you to address these issues and ensure the implant will be a success.
- Use of dentures or partials: Implants may replace or stabilize other tooth-replacement devices.
- Smokers: Smoking negatively impacts your overall dental health. While smokers are still eligible for dental implants, it is advised that they quit smoking to optimally benefit their overall health.
For gentle dental and orthodontics care for the entire family, call the Maple Shade Dental Group at 309-285-8376 or visit mapleshadecenter.com for more information.