Fixture
A dental implant restoration is made up of two main components. The implant that serves as an artificial root and a restoration that replaces the lost tooth. Implants are often fitted with crowns, but they can also serve as bases for other restoration, like dentures and bridges.
The eligibility for dental implants depends on several factors, rather than being a one-size-fits-all solution. Generally, a good candidate for dental implants is someone with adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant, healthy gums, and good overall health.
However, certain conditions and diseases may influence whether dental implants are right for you. For example, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease may affect whether dental implants can fuse to your bone properly. Additionally, people who take certain medications, such as steroids or drugs that suppress the immune system, may not be suitable candidates either.
It’s also important to note that age is not a determining factor for dental implant candidacy. Whether you’re an older adult or a teenager who has lost a tooth due to an injury, disease, or decay, you may be eligible for dental implants.
However, for individuals who are still growing, dental implants may not be the right solution. Your dentist at Fold Dentistry will be able to determine if dental implants are the right treatment option for you or your child. It’s crucial to have a detailed discussion about your health history and all the potential treatment options available to you before making a decision.
The longevity of dental implants can be influenced by various factors, such as the patient’s overall health, oral hygiene, and regular dental visits. Under optimal conditions, dental implants can last for many decades, potentially even a lifetime.
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth loss. They are made from titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This fusion helps the implant to function and feel just like a natural tooth.
However, while the implant itself can last a lifetime, the crown or the artificial tooth placed on top of the implant may require replacement after about 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear. The lifespan of the crown can be influenced by factors such as the patient’s bite, the types of foods they eat, and whether they grind or clench their teeth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical to ensure the longevity of the dental implant. This includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and regularly visiting the dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings. It’s also important to avoid harmful habits, such as smoking or chewing hard items, as these can damage the implants.
Lastly, regular dental check-ups at Fold Dentistry are vital. Your dentist can monitor the condition of the dental implant, the surrounding gum and bone, and the artificial tooth, ensuring that they continue to function optimally. They can also provide tailored advice on how to care for your implant, so it remains a lasting solution for your smile.
Dental implants, when correctly placed and fitted, should not negatively impact your speech. In fact, they should improve it if you’ve been experiencing speech issues due to missing teeth.
When you lose a tooth, it can create a gap that interrupts the normal flow of air during speech, affecting how you pronounce certain words. By filling in these gaps, dental implants can restore normal speech patterns. The implants replace the entire structure of the missing teeth, from the root to the crown, thereby closely mimicking natural teeth and enabling clear speech.
However, there may be a temporary period of adjustment after the placement of dental implants, particularly if multiple implants are placed at once. During this time, you might experience slight changes in your speech, such as lisping. This is typically short-lived and resolves once your mouth adjusts to the new implants.
It’s important to understand that the success of dental implants in restoring normal speech is greatly dependent on the skill of the practitioner. At Fold Dentistry, our experienced dental team carefully designs and positions each implant to ensure it fits perfectly in your mouth, feels comfortable, and functions just like a natural tooth.
Keep in mind, regular check-ups following the procedure are crucial. This allows your dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the artificial teeth attached to your implants, thereby ensuring a flawless fit and normal speech.
Thus, if fitted properly, dental implants can contribute significantly to improved speech, allowing you to speak clearly and confidently once again.
