Losing at least one adult tooth during a person's lifetime is common, becoming more likely with older age. Sometimes a tooth is knocked out, but more commonly, one or more must be extracted. The tooth may have become infected or developed too much decay. Because dental implants have distinct advantages compared with bridges, dentists encourage patients to choose these devices to replace missing teeth. An Idaho Falls dentist can place implants relatively soon after extraction or even years later.
Pertinent Statistics
By age 50, U.S. residents on average have lost 12 teeth, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Although this includes wisdom teeth extractions, it's still a troubling statistic. By age 74, over one-quarter of U.S. residents have lost all their natural teeth. Missing teeth often cause functional or cosmetic issues. Having an Idaho Falls dentist resolve the problem is important.
A Different Strategy
Although they have similar cosmetic benefits, dental implants are entirely different from other tooth replacement options. Bridges and dentures sit on the gum tissue and underlying bone. In contrast, implants are surgically placed inside the bone. After the rod and bone fuse together, the device stimulates the jawbone during chewing just as natural teeth roots do. This maintains bone strength and density.
Implant Materials
Implants typically have a titanium rod with a ceramic or porcelain crown on top. Titanium is the most biocompatible metal and easily fuses with bone. That fusion is medically known as osseointegration. Titanium also has the positive qualities of being lightweight and very durable. Porcelain and ceramic look almost identical to natural tooth enamel. Dental lab technicians custom-make the crowns to match well with the patient's adjacent teeth.
An abutment connected to the rod functions as the platform for the crown. These components are usually made of titanium or ceramic. Most commonly, the abutment is added after osseointegration has secured the rod to the bone structure. By delaying abutment and crown placement, the patient can more easily avoid chewing there. Doing so could disrupt the osseointegration process.
After the Procedure
Although patients may feel nervous about surgical implant placement, the procedure is significantly more comfortable than tooth extraction. Dentists can provide a mild sedative if the person would like. Nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, or an oral sedative are suitable options. Because gum tissue recovers rapidly and the jawbone contains a limited number of nerves, pain is relatively minimal. Patients can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen if necessary.
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