If you ask most people, a beautiful smile sits high on their list of wants. Unfortunately, even with the best dental care, it’s still possible to lose your teeth. Thankfully, there are ways to replace missing teeth that look and function just like your own. Dental implants can restore both your smile and self-confidence. 

Of course, there’s more to dental implants than just the aesthetics. They also make it easier to eat and speak since they’re secured into the jaw by the dentist. In addition, you won’t have to worry about the implants coming loose at an inconvenient time like dentures.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have been a mainstay of dental restoration. The purpose is to replace any teeth you may have lost. Not only do they look like real teeth, but they also feel and function like your own. 

Getting implants have been proven to boost confidence and improve self-esteem. Anybody who has spaces in their mouth due to lost teeth will be able to smile with dignity upon receiving dental implants. 

How long do dental implants last?

Two of the most common questions that dentists are asked are “How long do dental implants last?” or “Are dental implants permanent?” Dental implants can last forever if you take care of them properly. In fact, the longevity of your dental implants does depend on several things. For example:

  • How you take care of your implants, like brushing two times a day, flossing every day and seeing your dentist at least every six months.
  • Refraining from biting down on hard things such as pencils, hard candy and not using your teeth to open things.
  • How skilled the dentist is with implantation. You should only have dental implants by a skilled dental professional 
  • Your overall health and lifestyle.

How successful are dental implants?

A study done by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) has shown that dental implants have a 95 percent success rate. While this is a substantially high rate, keep in mind that the success depends on where you’re missing teeth, your general health and overall lifestyle. 

Since dental implants are considered a surgical procedure, some people may not be suitable candidates. People who smoke, have diabetes, are pregnant, drink alcohol or suffer from bleeding disorders may not be able to have dental implants. 

Before recommending one or more dental implants, the dentist will inspect your teeth, gums and jawbone to determine if you are a good candidate. Furthermore, your dentist will need to know your medical history to make sure you’re not at risk for complications.

What are the complications of dental implants?

Although having complications with dental implants is rare, that doesn’t mean they can’t happen. Despite the high success rate, here is a brief list of complications that come with dental implants:

  • Infections in the implant area
  • The implant becomes loose
  • The implant falling out
  • Nerve damage
  • Tissue damage
  • Numbness
  • Pain
  • A tingling feeling in the gums
  • Sinus issues as a result of the implant touching the sinus cavities
  • Peri-implantitis, which is when the bone and gum around the implant becomes inflamed

After receiving your dental implants, make sure to follow routine maintenance at home and consult with your dentist. This will ensure that problems like these won’t occur. 

If you’re looking for dental restoration, Beckett Dental is here for you. Call to schedule an appointment today at 513-438-8020!