DENTAL IMPLANTS are artificial object that simulates a tooth root and is placed surgically in to the jaw bone and serves as an anchor or foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth.
Losing one or more teeth in the mouth leads to an inability to chew properly and a gap in your smile and also leads to bone loss. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants restores that confidence in your smile and ability to chew and enjoy any food you like. The best part is you can achieve this without compromising adjacent healthy teeth.
Dental implants are the next best option to natural teeth.
Are Dental Implants safe and how long will they last?
A) Dental Implants are a safe, well-established, tried-and-tested treatment. It’s probably true to say that dental implants, much like natural teeth, will last for as long as you care for them. How well you look after your dental implants – and whether you go for your regular maintenance appointments – will have the biggest impact on how long they will last.
If you don’t look after your dental implants they will develop a coating similar to that found on neglected natural teeth. Left untreated, this can lead to gum infection, bleeding, soreness and general discomfort. You could get all these problems with natural teeth.
If your dental implants are well looked after, and if the bone they are fitted to is strong and healthy, you can expect them to last for many years. However, just as with other surgical implants (such as a hip replacement) there is no lifetime guarantee.
What is the success rate for dental implant surgery?
A) Overall, the success rate for healthy patients who receive dental implants is high—from 92–98%. However, patients who are over age 72, who smoke, or who have a history of diabetes or head and neck radiation, or who are postmenopausal and on hormone replacement therapy, may carry a higher risk of dental implant failure as compared with healthy patients. During initial consultation, oral surgeons review the medical history of patients. This will allow them to determine whether dental implants are right for you.
