There are many good things people say about dental implants, and their advantages over other tooth replacement options. But before scheduling your appointment, let’s review a few basics about dental implants.

First, what are dental implants? Dental implants are replacement tooth roots shaped like a screw and usually made of titanium. They are surgically inserted into the jawbone, when there is enough of it to ensure ample anchorage. After healing, a restoration is attached in order to replace a tooth or a set of teeth. These are permanent and very durable and they look and feel like natural teeth, making them very popular.

One other good thing about dental implants is the fact that there are no limitations on the age of the patient. From children to the elderly, if you have missing teeth, you can probably get them. If there are any contraindicated conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes and bone cancer, these must be cleared.

If you are concerned with surgery, don’t worry. During the procedure, an effective sedative and local anesthetic will be used to make sure you are free from any discomfort. You will also be given medications to ensure comfort after surgery.

Dental implants are the most successful procedures in dentistry. However, there are several factors that may affect the long-term success of dental implants. First, is the quality and quantity of the jawbone. The better the quality of bone and with appropriate bone height and width, the higher the chance of long-term success. Another factor is the quality of the restoration used on top of the implant. Only the best materials and procedures should be used. And lastly, is the capability and experience of the dental surgeon who will perform the implantation. There is no substitute to ensuring the right doctor to do the best surgery for you. It is always best that you feel confident with the professional to whom you are entrusting your health.

So, you ask now, who can place a dental implant? Dental implantation can be done by a periodontist, an oral surgeon, or a general dentist (implantologist) properly trained in implant surgery. If you go to a periodontist or an oral surgeon, you will also have to see a restorative dentist because periodontists and oral surgeons are only trained to do the implant, while the general dentist (implantologist) will be the one to construct and put on the crown (cap). But, with implantologists, both the surgical insertion of the implant and the attachment of the tooth or teeth is completed in one location, which can be a huge benefit.

Maintenance of dental implants is not unlike natural teeth. Professional cleaning and examination, twice per year is recommended. And, of course, nothing beats daily brushing and flossing to maintain not just your implants, but your overall oral and general health.

For further information on dental implants, contact Opelika Dental Implants at 334-528-0175 or fill out a contact request form.