Dental Implant Years After Extraction
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth! Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants so it is important to discuss the procedure and your options with your dentist. Even if you lost a tooth years ago and have not done anything to replace it, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. In order for a patient to be considered a candidate for dental implants, they need to have sufficient bone structure and healthy gum tissue. If a patient is otherwise healthy but does not have the bone structure to support a dental implant, there is still hope with a bone graft.
A bone graft is a procedure performed in anticipation of implant placement where a donor bone is placed in the area and left to heal for a few months before the implant is placed. The new bone will integrate with the original bone to form a secure foundation for the implant. An oral surgeon or periodontist will perform the bone graft as well as the implant placement surgeries. Dental implants take quite some time to complete so it is important for you to understand the procedure before you commit.
What is the process for dental implants?
The doctor will administer a local anesthetic to the area being treated before making a small incision in the gum tissue and drilling a small hole in the jawbone. The titanium implant is then placed directly into the bone and the gum tissue is sutured around the post. A small portion of the implant will be left exposed above the gum tissue to allow placement of the implant prosthesis. A healing cap is placed on the implant to protect it from damage and infection while you heal and the implant integrates with the bone. Healing time can take up to six months, depending on your overall health.
Once the implant is fully integrated, your dentist will place your implant prosthesis which may be an individual crown or even an implant-supported bridge or full denture.
Are dental implants durable?
Titanium is the most common material used in the production of dental implants. Titanium has a high biocompatibility rate with the human body which makes it ideal for the necessary integration with the jaw bone. The fusion that forms between a jawbone and the implant is what provides the stable foundation for the implant prosthesis. Dental implants can easily last a lifetime even though the prosthesis may need to be replaced eventually. Most dental prostheses are fabricated using porcelain which is incredibly strong and durable. Normal wear and tear is to be expected and may cause you to eventually need a new prosthesis.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants have a very high success rate at about 95% to 97%. With proper care and maintenance, your implant can easily last a lifetime. Dental implants are one of the more expensive treatment options but their longevity often makes them more cost-effective in the long run.
If you have a missing tooth that you think it is too late to do anything about, speak with your dentist. You may very well be a candidate for dental implants and if you are not, there are other options available!