The Toothache That Changed My Life

If you are looking for a method to replace a missing tooth, you may be unsure if a dental implant is the best way to go about doing it. Since a bridge or partial denture is a viable alternative, here are some things to know about getting a dental implant that can help sway you in that direction.

Implants Have High Success Rates

One misconception about dental implants is that they have a high chance of failing. This is simply not true, since the surgery success rate is 98%. In addition, there are ways to improve your chance of having a successful surgery, which includes following all post surgery care instructions from your dentist. This includes taking medications that prevent infections, still brushing and flossing regularly, and using any prescribed antiseptic rinse from your dentist.

Implants Have A Straight Forward Recovery Process

Having oral surgery may seem like there will be a complicated recovery process, where with a partial denture or a bridge the process is very straight forward. While getting an implant is considered oral surgery, the recovery process is straightforward.

Like with most surgeries, you'll need to take a pain reliever afterward, as well as put ice on the area to reduce swelling. Using a salt water rinse will also help clean out the area and reduce the chance of an infection. While you'll need some down time at home immediately following the procedure, you can return to your job soon after. Just make sure to limit your activity so it is not too strenuous.

Implants Replicate Natural Teeth

The biggest advantage of using a dental implant is that it's going to feel as if it's a real tooth in the end. There won't be concerns about the implant being fragile like a bridge, or feeling loose like a partial denture. The typical person can't tell that you have an implant, which may be appealing to you if you are worried about what people think of you wearing dentures.

Implants Improve Overall Oral Health

The post inserted into the jawbone for an implant also provides the jawbone with much needed stimulation, which prevents it from deteriorating over time. This means that an implant will actually improve your overall oral health over the years, and prevent your gums from sinking in as you get older. This can help the surrounding teeth remain stable and not become loose and fall out, or and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.