Dental Implants: How Long Should They Last?

There are a handful of treatments that blur the lines of different branches of dentistry. This is because such treatments can serve multiple purposes. One particularly noteworthy example is receiving dental implants near you. 

This treatment falls under the category of restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, as well as periodontics. As is made evident by the name, periodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on preventing and treating periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease. Installing dental implants is a common procedure used to address this issue. A dentist that specializes in the placement of dental implants is formally known as a periodontist. 

Dental implants are a great option to consider especially if you’re missing teeth. Not only will it help restore the functionality of your smile, but it will improve its overall appearance too. You deserve to have a beautiful, natural smile you’re proud to show off without having to worry about eating and talking.

If you’re looking for more information about receiving dental implants in Red Deer, get in touch with our local dental practice today! We’ll be able to refer you to a dentist near you who can answer all your questions and concerns. 

What are Dental Implants?

Dentists typically recommended receiving dental implants for patients who are dealing with tooth loss. Receiving dental implants is a surgical procedure. It involves drilling down into your jawbone so that the implant screw can be placed. An abutment, or connecting piece, attaches to the implant so that a dental crown can be placed. Each of these three components helps restore the strength of your smile. 

Biocompatible materials, usually titanium, are used to fabricate the implant and abutment. As for the dental crown, this can be made of a number of materials including, but not limited to metals (silver amalgam), ceramic, or porcelain. Although traditional metal dental crowns are very durable, they’re visible in your mouth. So, if you’re wanting your device to blend in with your smile, then porcelain or ceramic are two good choices. Porcelain, especially, is extremely resistant to stains. 

Receiving dental implants is a reliable and effective solution that is definitely worth considering. If you’re interested in learning more about the process, contact our dental clinic. 

Why Do People Lose Teeth?

Since visiting Red Deer dentist entails finding solutions to teeth loss, many people may believe that receiving dental implants is just for elderly patients. Social stereotypes certainly haven’t helped in this regard. 

However, people of all ages can lose teeth for many reasons, the most common being the following: 

1. Infrequent brushing and flossing! 
2. Infrequent dental cleanings and checkups. 
3. Smoking.
4. Gum disease. 
5. Cavities. 
6. Illness.
7. Poor diet. 
8. Physical injuries, such as having your tooth knocked out from a sports game.

When you’re missing teeth, gaps are left behind in your smile. If this is left unaddressed, bacteria, plaque, and tartar can build up in these spaces, resulting in oral infections that can spread to other areas of your mouth and your body. Your remaining teeth can also shift into these gaps, which can give rise to problems with your bite. 

If you’re unsure whether you require dental care, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and speak with a dentist here in Red Deer. They’ll be able to identify whether dental implants are the best course of action for your specific case or in an alternative process that would be more appropriate.

Receiving Dental Care Near You 

Although dental implants are something to consider, they are not for everyone. Everyone’s oral health and needs are different, which is why, in order to undergo periodontal treatment, your dentist must establish if you meet certain criteria. Otherwise, this procedure may cause setbacks in your oral health as opposed to improving it. 

Dental implants may be a good option for you if: 

1. You’re missing one or more teeth. 
2. Have a strong jawbone. It’s very important that your jawbone is healthy so that it can accommodate the dental implant and properly heal once it’s been placed. 
3. Your oral tissues are healthy.
4. You cannot or don’t want to wear dentures. 
5. You’re looking to improve your speech.
6. You don’t smoke.

Dental implant treatment can be a costly and time-consuming process. Therefore, it’s important to understand what it encompasses before committing to anything. Our staff is here to walk you through the treatment from start to finish so you know what to expect. 

Caring for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a reliable, permanent solution to tooth loss. There are also things you can do at home to ensure that your dental implants remain in good condition so they can serve you well for a long time. 

Once your mouth is completely healed from surgery, you’ll be able to treat your dental implants as you would any other tooth. This means that you can brush and floss them after each meal. If you experience sensitivity, using a toothbrush with soft bristles can help with this, as well as brushing with mild toothpaste. 

When you’re brushing, be sure to clean all around your dental crown and down to your gum line. Swishing with mouthwash is also beneficial. 

Lastly, making sure to come in for a routine dental cleaning and checkup every six months or so is also important. Your dentist will be able to evaluate the condition of your implants and how it is impacting your neighboring teeth. 

If you take care to practice good habits, your dental implants can last up to fifteen years. But do keep in mind that the effectiveness of every dental treatment, whether it’s a simple process or a more complex one, is heavily dependent on the state of your oral hygiene.

Are you looking to receive dental services, particularly dental implants near you? Our Gaetz Dental dentist in Red Deer is here to help. Call or visit our website to schedule a consultation to get started. We look forward to working with you!