5 Key Facts about Dental Implants

Aside from teeth whitening, dental implants may be the most commonly discussed dental procedure of our time. Implant dentistry has been incredibly successful and it has been used to eliminate many of the frustrating or uncomfortable dental conditions that are faced by adults of all races and genders. If you were to take an informal survey in St. Charles alone, an overwhelming number of dentists would agree that dental implants are the top recommendation when missing teeth need to be replaced.

Even with all of the acclaim, you certainly wouldn’t want to make a decision about your oral health based upon an apparent trend. Here are 5 key facts about dental implants that will help you to make a more informed decision:

1. Among all dental procedures, the success rate for dental implants ranks consistently near the top of the list at 95-98%.

2. Although it may feel “new,” implant dentistry has been around for more than 30 years and is supported by thousands of clinical studies.

3. No one is “too old” for dental implants. Healthy patients well into their 80’s and 90’s can be candidates for dental implants if they have missing teeth or if the implants can help to improve the fit of their dentures or partials. The state of your general health is the biggest determining factor, not your age, if you would like to be a candidate for dental implants.

4. Dental implants can keep the jawbone strong by preventing the deterioration that can come after a natural tooth has been lost. Bone loss after tooth loss is common, but dental implants can provide enough stability to arrest that process.

5. Implants are durable but not infallible. Dental implants cannot get cavities, but they can be vulnerable to gum disease. Untreated gum disease and inflammation can lead to bone loss around an implant, causing it to be lost due to insufficient support. An implant must be cleaned and cared for like a natural tooth when it comes to plaque, tartar, and your general health.

For more information and advice regarding dental implants, consult with your dentist today.