Patients are realising the long-term benefits of dental implants in the current economic climate
Article Source: HealthSnare.com
Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular means of replacing missing teeth; implants are a relatively new treatment, which provide a long-term, natural looking solution to lost or damaged teeth. Many people lose teeth as a result of an accident, sports injury or dental health problems; it is important to replace missing teeth because having a gap in the teeth can affect the relationship between the upper and lower teeth and may cause problems with speaking and eating.
What is a dental implant?
The actual dental implant is a small, rod-shaped device, which is used to replace the root portion of the lost tooth. The implant is inserted into a pre-drilled socket in the jaw bone; once the implant has integrated into the bone and the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a new crown will be attached and the tooth will look completely natural; implants can also be used to anchor dentures.
What benefits do they offer?
Dental implants have a range of benefits and are being championed by many dentists as an alternative to dental bridges and dentures. The implants are made from titanium, which integrates well with the jaw bone and does not damage the surrounding gum tissue or teeth. The implant also helps to prevent bone loss, which can occur as a result of ageing or losing a tooth; the implant can help to stimulate bone growth, which will help to preserve the shape of the jaw.
Dental implants also help to restore natural function of the teeth; the implants, when attached to crowns, act in exactly the same way as natural teeth and will enable patients to eat and speak properly. The new tooth will also look exactly like a normal tooth, which will help to preserve the natural, healthy appearance of the individual's smile and give them greater confidence.
Dental implants also promote good oral hygiene and are much easier to look after than dentures; it can be difficult and time consuming to look after dentures. Dental implants must be looked after in the same way as normal teeth, so there is no need to adapt your traditional oral hygiene regime.
What does treatment involve?
In the vast majority of cases, there is no preparation needed for implants, unlike other treatments, which may involve having teeth extracted. In some cases, the individual may need to have a bone graft if they do not have sufficient bone mass to support the implant.
Dental implants are suitable for most people but if you smoke, drink heavily or have periodontal disease, you may be advised to choose an alternative treatment. The treatment may also not be suitable for patients who have health conditions, which mean that their immune systems are compromised.
A bit more expensive but with enduring results
Dental implants are relatively expensive but they are a long-term solution and have numerous benefits, so most people consider them to be worth the initial investment; many dentists also offer payment plans, which help to spread the cost of the treatment over a period of time. The exact cost of dental implants will depend on where you go to have your treatment; some dentists and clinics charge more than others and prices usually reflect the expertise and experience of the dentist; the location of the clinic may also affect the cost of treatment, as clinics in city centres are usually more expensive than those in smaller towns.
Many dentists now offer dental implants; if you are interested in the treatment, arrange a consultation with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to answer your questions and tell you more about the treatment; this will help you to decide whether the treatment would be beneficial for you.
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Daniel Scotland
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Date: Sun, 7 Nov 2010 Time: 4:55 AM
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