If you’re suffering from issues affecting your smile, such as damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are a great restorative option. However, many patients wonder if dental implants are safe.
While getting dental implants is a complex process, you can rest assured that an experienced prosthodontist will be able to complete the procedure safely. Read on to learn more about the benefits of dental implants and the safety of the procedure.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement teeth rooted to your jawbone. As both a cosmetic and restorative procedure, dental implants can help to the overall function and appearance of your smile.
Dental implants provide a strong and durable foundation for fixed and/or removable teeth and are custom-made to match your natural teeth.
Dental Implant Process
The first step to getting dental implants is for you and your prosthodontist to formulate a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Once this is determined, a small post made of titanium (called a tooth root implant) is inserted into the bone socket of the missing tooth.
The jawbone will then heal around this metal post, anchoring it to the jaw. Once this has bonded, a small connector post (abutment) is attached. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is crafted to match the appearance of the surrounding teeth. Finally, this replacement tooth is securely fastened to the abutment.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants are often considered the “gold standard” of tooth replacements. These implants can vastly improve the look of your smile and prevent bone loss in the jaw from missing teeth.
Some of the advantages of dental implants include:
● Improvements in appearance
● Improved speaking ability
● Easier eating and reduction of tooth pain
● Boosted self-confidence
● Durability and comfort
In general, dental implants have a very high success rate of up to 98%. These implants are very durable and give the appearance of natural teeth. When properly cared for, they can often last a lifetime.
Dental Implant Safety
While it’s true that dental implants do require a surgical procedure, dental professionals have been performing it safely for more than 30 years. In addition, due to advances in modern dental technology, the process of getting dental implants continues to improve.
As with any other surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. While there is a small possibility of infection or rejection of an implanted tooth, these risks are quite rare. If you’re feeling nervous about having the procedure, it’s always a good idea to speak to your prosthodontist, who can go over your concerns with you and explain the small risks you may encounter.
Dental Implant Options with Advanced Prosthodontics
Dental implants are one of the most popular options for cosmetic and restorative tooth replacement. Despite a very small possibility of rare complications, the procedure is very safe.
Dr. Hersh has extensive experience and advanced training in all aspects of reconstructive, implant, and cosmetic dentistry. At Advanced Prosthodontics, we take special care in creating the perfect custom plan to suit each patient’s unique needs.
If you’re considering dental implants, give us a call at (610) 865-4222 to learn more about the procedure and schedule an appointment.