Do Dental Implants Feel Natural?

Sometimes, accidents and tooth loss can happen in the blink of an eye. But losing a tooth doesn’t have to be the end of your confident smile. Finding a tooth replacement that feels natural can make a difference. 

Whether you're playing a high-stakes hockey game or dealing with a pesky cavity, dental implants provide a solution to restore your smile in a way that feels and looks natural.

Are Dental Implants Necessary?

When you lose a tooth, there's more at stake than just aesthetics. Missing teeth can affect how you speak and chew, potentially even leading to bone loss in your jaw. 

Dental implants are sometimes recommended to help prevent complications caused by tooth loss. Implants can also help you regain confidence by mimicking the function and appearance of natural teeth. 

Although many people worry about dental procedures, local anesthesia and even sedation can help reduce discomfort and make implant surgery a smoother process.

What Are Dental Implants?

At their core, dental implants are metal posts or frames surgically placed into the jawbone beneath your gums. They serve as sturdy anchors for replacement teeth like crowns or bridges. The procedure typically requires a few visits to your dentist, starting with a comprehensive oral health assessment.

After your dentist has completed the surgery, a crown or bridge is affixed to the implant, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. Over time, the implant fuses with your jawbone, becoming a stable and secure part of your dental anatomy that should feel just like your other teeth.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Since chewing exerts significant pressure on your jaw, sufficient bone support is necessary to accommodate dental implants. You might be a suitable candidate for implants if you have healthy gums, sufficient jawbone to support the implant, and generally good health. If your jawbone isn't quite up to the task, a bone graft may be considered to prepare for the implant.

Good gum health is also necessary to avoid future complications. The lack of gum support and excess bacteria can affect implant success.

Your dentist may also consider any medical conditions that affect healing to help determine if you’re a good candidate for implants.

What to Expect During Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are a long-term solution, but they require patience. The process begins with an X-ray or scan of your teeth, jaw, and head to help determine if you're a suitable candidate. 

After your consultation, dental implant surgery will involve two main stages. 

• Initially, your dentist will numb the area and insert the implant directly into the jawbone. Your gum tissue will be stitched back together, allowing the implant to bond with your bone over several months.
• In the second stage of surgery and once the gum tissue has healed, a post called an abutment is attached to hold a custom crown or bridge.

The surgical process can sometimes take months because healing time between each stage is vital, but depending on your situation, these two stages can sometimes be done together.

It may take several appointments to ensure everything aligns properly. For those replacing multiple teeth, two or more implants might support a full-arch replacement. Your dentist can help determine how many implants you need to support a full arch.

How to Care for Your Dental Implant

Similar to other oral surgeries, some discomfort is expected after the procedure. Symptoms like bruising, swelling, minor bleeding, and pain around the implant site are common. Over-the-counter pain medication can help reduce discomfort, and it's essential to rest and consume soft foods during the initial healing phase.

Proper care involves brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. Regular dental check-ups ensure your implant remains in top condition. Your dentist can provide tailored post-operation instructions to help your recovery process. 

Should You Choose Dental Implants?

Your implant-supported crown or bridge can function just like natural teeth. Implants assist with chewing, speaking, and maintaining the alignment of your remaining teeth. 

For ideal candidates, dental implants boast a remarkable success rate. A well-maintained implant can last upwards of 20 years, offering significant long-term savings. They also help preserve your jawbone structure, reducing the risk of bone loss in adjacent teeth.

For those weighing their options, the consistency, durability, and aesthetic appeal of dental implants make them a worthy choice. However, implants might not be the solution for everybody. It’s important to consult with your dentist about treatments that suit your personal needs.

Are You Considering Dental Implants?

Dental implants can restore the function and appearance of your teeth, often restoring speech and chewing abilities and preventing complications like rapid bone loss. At Markham Dental, our goal is to help you find treatments that preserve your oral health. If dental implants suit you, our experienced team will support you every step of the way.

Your smile can be a reflection of your confidence, and dental implants can help. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step towards regaining your radiant smile.