Improve Your Smile with Dental Implants

Losing your teeth can have a significant impact on multiple facets of your health. Physically, you are at an increased risk of bone loss and, in some cases, tooth decay and gum disease.  Mentally, you may have to struggle with functions that were once second nature, such as eating, speaking, and smiling. Your teeth are also integral to your appearance. Without your teeth, your facial structure can sag and the integrity of your jawbone can become diminished. As daunting as this all sounds, there is a solution—dental implants. Dental implants mimic the form and function of your natural teeth, as well as address potential health issues.

Finding viable tooth replacements is a science. Nearly 70 percent of the adult population is suffering from the loss of at least one permanent tooth due to accidents, tooth decay or gum disease. Over the past two decades, dental experts have perfected the dental implant to be an ideal solution.

Dental implants can replace one or several teeth and involve inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which is fitted with a crown to exactly replicate the appearance of a natural tooth. Over time, the titanium fuses with the jawbone and the implant essentially becomes part of the body. This effect ensures that the implant not only lasts a lifetime, but that it preserves all the functions of the teeth and protects the health of the bone and surrounding tissue.

With a 95 percent success rate, dental implants are a suitable option for most healthy adults. Dental implants cost less than dentures and bridges, when you consider that they rarely have to be replaced. Most dentures and bridges have to be replaced two to three times in a lifetime. Most patients report positive outcomes with dental implants.

Due to the natural feel and function of implants, patients can return to their normal lifestyle; there are no limitations of food choices, activities or the need to “re-learn” speaking, laughing, or chewing. And, dental implants ensure that you look as good as you feel, supporting the facial structure, too.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Healthy individuals whose teeth, gums, and tissues have reached full physical maturity and have experienced tooth loss are all candidates for dental implants. Your dentist will review your medical history carefully and discuss your lifestyle to ensure dental implants are the best choice for you. Some considerations include:

• Dental issues. Patients susceptible to cavities or who suffer from gum disease are still candidates for dental implants. Your dentist can work with you to address these issues and ensure the implant will be a success.
• Use of dentures or partials. Implants may replace or stabilize other tooth-replacement devices.
• Existing medical conditions. Patients with poorly managed hypertension or diabetes may not be the ideal candidates for dental implants. Your dentist in Indiana can help you assess your condition to determine success of the procedure.
• Smoking. Smoking negatively impacts your overall dental health. While smokers are still eligible for dental implants, it is advised that they quit smoking to optimally benefit their overall health.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Indiana, call Wadas Dental today or make an appointment.