Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. They are surgically placed in the jawbone, which functions as the roots of missing teeth.

Whether you’re missing a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, injury, or some other reason, dental implants are effective at improving the function and appearance of your smile.

Dental implants are considered a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing teeth because the process of placing dental implants involves a surgical procedure that cannot be reversed. Once placed, the implant heals and integrates with the bone over a period of several months. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, a dental crown or bridge is attached to the implant, completing the restoration.

Dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth, and they can help to preserve the jawbone and prevent it from deteriorating. Although considered a permanent solution, many patients ask how long dental implants actually last. Here’s what you need to know.

 

Components of Dental Implants

Dental implants have three main components:

• The implant: This is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for the root of the missing tooth. The implant is typically made of high-grade titanium, which is biocompatible and can fuse with the bone tissue over time.
• The abutment: This is a connector piece that is attached to the top of the implant and provides a secure connection between the implant and the restoration (the artificial tooth). The abutment is usually made of a metal such as titanium or gold.
• The restoration: This is the artificial tooth (also known as a crown) that is attached to the abutment and sits on top of the gum line. The restoration can be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain, zirconia, or a combination of materials. It is designed to function and look like a natural tooth.

In some cases, a dental implant may also include a fourth component known as a "healing collar" or "healing abutment." This is a temporary piece that is placed on top of the implant during the healing process after surgery, to protect the implant and provide a smooth surface for the gum tissue to heal around.

Once the implant has fully healed, and the gum tissue has stabilized, the healing collar is removed, and the permanent abutment and restoration are placed.

 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are designed to be long-lasting with proper care. However, the specific lifespan of a dental implant will depend on various factors, including the quality of the implant, the individual's oral hygiene habits, and the overall health of the patient.

On average, dental implants have a success rate of 95% or higher after five years. This means that after five years, 95% or more of dental implants are still functional and in place. However, some dental implants may last for much longer than five years, while others may need to be replaced after a shorter period of time.

To ensure the longevity of a dental implant, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and to visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. It is also important to follow the care instructions provided by your dentist, which may include avoiding certain types of foods or activities that could potentially damage the implant.

 

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are several benefits to dental implants, including:

• Improved appearance: Dental implants can look and feel just like natural teeth, and can be used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. This can improve the appearance of your smile and restore your confidence.
• Improved function: Dental implants can help you eat, speak, and chew more effectively, as they are designed to function just like natural teeth.
• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, making them a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.
• Convenience: Unlike dentures, which can be removed and require special care and cleaning, dental implants are permanent and do not require any special maintenance beyond good oral hygiene habits.
• Improved oral health: Dental implants do not require the reduction of surrounding teeth, as is sometimes necessary with traditional bridges. This helps to preserve the natural teeth and can improve overall oral health.
• Increased comfort: Because dental implants are anchored to the jawbone, they can provide a stable and secure fit, which can be more comfortable than dentures or traditional bridges.
• Improved quality of life: Dental implants can improve your overall quality of life by restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

 

Learn More About Dental Implants at Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry

If you want a solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth, then dental implants are your best solution. They do much more than replace missing teeth. They help maintain and strengthen bone structure, provide the ability to chew healthy food, and give patients the confidence to smile. They also protect existing teeth by helping to preserve bone structure.

To learn more about dental implants and to schedule a consultation, contact us at either of our convenient offices in Cranston or East Greenwich. 

In our dental practice, we frequently hear myths about dental implants. We do our best to debunk these myths for each patient, correcting their misconceptions.

After speaking with many patients in our office, we have collected the most common myths about dental implants and how they differ from reality.

 

Myth #1: Dental Implant Surgery is Painful

Dental implant surgery may be intimidating, but it is much less complex than most patients expect. Today, dental implant surgery is painless. There may be discomfort and swelling during the healing process, but your dentist can help you manage these with medication and home care measures.

 

Myth #2: Dental Implants Look and Feel Unnatural

This myth is one of the most surprising that we hear in our office. Today's dental implants are almost impossible to tell apart from natural teeth. Unless you tell someone you have an implant, it's unlikely they would spot it on their own.

Dental implants feel like healthy, natural teeth. They do not shift like traditional dentures and allow for confident chewing and smiling.

 

Myth #3: Dental Implants Don't Last

Dental implants are the longest-lasting tooth restoration available today. The crown on top of a single-tooth implant may need replacement every 8 to 10 years, though it may last as long as 15 years if you care for it. The biocompatible titanium post may last a lifetime.

 

Myth #4: You Can't Get Implants If Your Tooth Has Been Missing for Some Time

This myth has some basis in fact, but fortunately, dentists havea solution to this problem.

If your tooth has been missing for some time, you may be a candidate for bone graft surgery. Bone grafting involves placing natural or synthetic bone material in your jawbone to promote growth. This surgery provides a strong attachment point for your dental implant. Talk to your dentist about whether you may be a candidate for bone grafting.

 

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have many impressive benefits, but these are five of the best:

• Improve your self-esteem and smile freely again
• Eat anything you like without the special consideration that bridges and dentures need
• Restore your bite force and strengthen your teeth
• Preserve tooth alignment
• Promote good oral health

 

Good Candidates for Dental Implants

People who are good candidates for dental implants are missing one or more teeth that they would like to replace. They do not have active gum disease or untreated cavities. They want to improve their oral health and prevent further problems from developing due to missing teeth.

 

Contact Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry

Contact us at our Cranston or East Providence offices to learn what dental implants can do for you. Our doctors will be happy to answer any questions you may have and ensure that you know the truth about dental implants.

When you need to permanently replace missing or heavily damaged teeth, dental implants are one of the most effective treatment solutions. Dental implants are one of the longest lasting treatment options, and are effective at restoring both appearance and function to your mouth. Are you interested in dental implants, but aren’t sure if they’re right for you?

We here at Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry are experienced at performing dental implant treatment, and are happy to share an overview of who dental implants are for. We’ll also discuss some of the key things to be aware of after treatment if you do decide to get dental implants, and how to best prepare for treatment if you feel it's the right fit.

Here are a few things to help you determine if dental implants are right for you:

 

What makes a good candidate for dental implants?

Contrary to popular belief, dental implants are a viable treatment option for both young and older patients alike. Furthermore, it is a highly effective treatment, and with proper oral hygiene dental implants can last a lifetime.

However, there are a few qualities to be aware of that makes dental implants better suited for some patients over others. This includes qualities such as:

• Non-smokers. Tobacco, vaping, and other carcinogenic inhalants are all bad for oral health. For implants, they’re even worse since your implants rely heavily on gum and jaw support, both of which are greatly weakened by smoking. If you intend to continue smoking, your implants won’t last as long compared to other patients.

• No diabetic or autoimmune disorder. Dental implants are a more invasive treatment compared to other common dental treatment solutions. As a result, complications can arise when the patient has diabetes, autoimmune disorders, heart problems, and similar health issues. Be sure to consult your dentist about your health before getting dental implants inserted.

• Damaged and missing teeth. Dental implants are a more significant treatment compared to other restorative and cosmetic dental treatment options. If a tooth has only small injuries, cracks, or cosmetic damage, other dental services should be considered before choosing to replace your tooth with dental implants.

 

How can I prepare for dental implant treatment?

Unlike many other dental treatments, dental implant treatments typically require a few visits to properly prepare for insertion. During these visits, your dentist will also confer with you and provide you with the best options for your oral needs.

While dental implants are long lasting, they are usually considered a treatment option best suited for those where no other treatment would be as effective. Make sure you discuss other restorative or cosmetic solutions before opting for dental implant treatment. 

 

What should I do after treatment?

Recovery time varies from person to person, but the recovery needed for dental implant treatment is longer compared to other dental treatment solutions. The worst of the pain and soreness will fade after two days, and after two weeks your mouth will generally feel close to normal. However, for complete recovery, it can take between three to six months for the implants to totally fuse with your jaw bone.

During and after treatment, make sure you practice good oral hygiene habits to maintain your implants. This includes the following:

• Brushing at least twice daily
• Flossing and using mouthwash at least once daily
• Visiting your dentist for semi-annual checkups and cleanings
• Avoiding tobacco, smoking, vaping, and other carcinogens
• Eating a balanced and healthy diet
• Reducing your consumption of highly acidic and sugary foods

 

Visit Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry for dental implants

Are you looking for dental implant treatment near Cranston or Greenwich, Rhode Island? Then we invite you to consider visiting the elite dentists here at Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry! At our dental practice, we believe in providing the best dental care possible to help you have a happy, healthy, and beautiful smile. Along with a wide variety of dental services, we use the latest in dental technology and techniques to improve our patient’s teeth.

Contact us today if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment, and we look forward to helping you here at Cranston Cosmetic Dentistry!