Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to replace missing teeth because of their unique advantages. They’re the only restorations that are placed in your jawbone for added strength and stability, which often makes them more resilient and longer lasting.
As a result, some patients wonder if they can replace their natural teeth this way. While it is technically possible, it’s also not usually recommended. Continue reading to learn more about it so you can make an informed decision to protect your dental health.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
This treatment is unique in that it’s the only service that involves surgically positioning the required number of support rods into your jaw. It can take 3 to 6+ months to recover from this procedure because that’s about how long it usually takes the mouth to generate enough new bone growth to fuse with these supports in a process called osseointegration. This makes them a more permanent part of your mouth that’s unlikely to become destabilized or dislodged.
One pole can anchor a dental crown to close the gap in your grin, or two or more can hold a specially designed bridge or set of dentures made to look and feel lifelike to enhance your smile’s appearance and functionality.
How Strong Are Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures and bridges, which some sources estimate can restore between 10% to 25% of your original bite force, dental implants can return up to 80% or more of your initial chewing power. Not only that, but the procedure has an incredibly high success rate of more than 90%, meaning most patients are unlikely to experience complications if they follow the post-operative instructions carefully.
However, that doesn’t mean that there are no risks. For example, you might experience nerve damage that causes chronic aches or develop a disease or infection, such as peri-implantitis, the leading cause of failure. Furthermore, if you have diabetes, heart problems, osteoporosis, or certain autoimmune conditions, the procedure can contribute to complications that interfere with your general health.
Can I Replace Natural Teeth with Dental Implants?
Although it’s possible for your dentist to extract still-viable teeth and replace them with dental implants, they’re unlikely to do so unless your natural tooth has been severely damaged or decayed and can’t be treated effectively with other services, such as a root canal or placing a dental crown.
In most cases, it’s better for your oral health to treat issues, like infections, cavities, periodontal disease, or injuries. This helps maintain your dental health while avoiding the risks that accompany tooth loss and the possible complications of unnecessary surgical procedures.
If you’re unsure whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants or have questions about the condition of your grin, you can learn more by scheduling a consultation with your provider!
About the Practice
Patients at Saratoga Dental benefit from two dentists committed to helping them build and maintain the most beautiful, healthiest versions of their smiles. Dr. Griswold and Dr. Talbot collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including dental implant placement and restoration, under one roof for your convenience. Their caring and compassionate approach combines with state-of-the-art technology for gentle, comfortable services and accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (360) 221-6373.