Are Dental Implants Permanent?

Dental implants are growing in popularity, especially as we age. There is nothing wrong with qualifying for and installing permanent dental implants. Actually, these neat devices give many new patients and users confidence as well as life skills that make it easier to talk, eat, and sometimes even breathe.

Although most dental implants are permanent, not all are. It is easier though to get a permanent dental implant because they last longer than temporary ones. Technically, temporary implants are simply dentures as they slip on and off the teeth that still exist. So, are dental implants the right choice for you?

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are devices that are installed or implanted into the gums, jawbone, or cheekbone. These devices look and feel like real teeth, but are made of porcelain, plastic, and other strong materials.

Typically, a dental implant is done by screwing on a tooth to the area where there once was one. Before this can happen though, the patient undergoes a dental implant process. First, the patient getting dental implants needs to go in for a cleaning. The jaw and the gums need to be fully clean and clear of any teeth. If not, this can allow for infections and the quick spread of bacteria.

What is the Purpose of Dental Implants?

There are a lot of reasons that people get dental implants. Some people get implants because they are missing teeth, which could cause mental discouragement and how they perceive themselves. Dental implants can help someone with their overall appearance and confidence.

Speaking without having all of your teeth is also difficult, just like eating. With dental implants, your speech gets better and you can prevent bacteria from food forming and spreading as the access to the gums has decreased.

How to Get Dental Implants

The only way to get dental implants installed in your mouth is to talk to your dentist or orthodontist. They will recommend certain types depending on the severity of your mouth and the reason you want them.

Different Types of Dental Implants

Before deciding on getting a dental implant, it is important to know the differences as well as the similarities. All three listed below have different purposes and are not for everyone.

Endosteal

An endosteal dental implant uses a drill. With this implant, there is a screw and it is permanent. This is the most common type as it is the safest and fuses directly to the users’ jawbone. The recovery time ranges, but usually the mouth heals in less than two weeks.

Subperiosteal

The subperiosteal dental implant is slightly different than endosteal. It sits on top of the bone, but under the gums. It is designed for people who do not have strong jaw bones. During the process, the dentist or surgeon places a metal frame in the gums to structure the teeth.

Zygomatic

Last but not least is the zygomatic dental implant which tends to be complicated and painful. This type is the most uncommon of all the dental implants. They are attached to the cheekbone, meaning it is very painful and takes longer to heal.

The Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants is what scares a lot of people away from this experience. Dental implants are very expensive. The implants alone can go up to $5,000. Keep in mind that this number does not include medications nor numbing needles for the surgery.

Although the cost of dental implants is expensive, you won’t have to frequently pay this amount. They are reliable and easy to care for! As long as you care for your dental implants, there won’t be a need to frequently repair or replace the implants.

Taking Care of Dental Implants

Instead of spending money on new dental implants frequently, it is important to take care of the dental implants even better then you did previously with your teeth. Just like regular teeth, you will need to brush them at least twice a day for twenty seconds or more in circular motions.

Flossing is also required with dental implants. Food can still get stuck between the implants, causing the material to wear down over time. Since all dental implants are made differently, you should consult your dentist to see if there are any special cleaning instructions.

Ready for Your Dental Implant Consultation?

Overall, dental implants are great for those who have lost teeth or have faced damage to their jawbone, cheekbones, or gums. Before considering a dental implant, know that most implants are permanent, meaning that once they have been secured and screwed in, you cannot take them out.

If you want a less permanent solution, speak to your dentist and doctor to find a better treatment for you. Dentures are similar, but they are not permanent.