What Exactly Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants Lafayette LA are artificial tooth roots. Implants serve as a solid basis for either fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are custom-made to match your original teeth. Despite advances in dental treatment, millions of Americans experience tooth loss, most of which is caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease, or accident. Bridges and dentures were the only treatment options available for persons with missing teeth for many years. However, dental implants are now available.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?
Dental implants provide numerous advantages, including:
The appearance has been improved. Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth. They are also permanent since they are engineered to merge with bone.
Speech has improved. Teeth might shift within the mouth with ill-fitting dentures, leading you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without fear of your teeth slipping.
Increased comfort. Implants reduce the discomfort associated with removable dentures since they become a part of you.
Easier to eat. Chewing can be challenging with sliding dentures. Dental implants operate similarly to natural teeth, allowing you to consume your favorite foods confidently and painlessly.
Self-esteem has improved. Dental implants might help you regain your smile and feel better about yourself.
Oral health has improved. Dental implants Lafayette LA, unlike tooth-supported bridges, do not necessitate the reduction of neighboring teeth. Because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your natural teeth are preserved, resulting in better long-term oral health. Individual implants also make it easier to clean between teeth, which improves oral hygiene.
Durability. Implants are extremely long-lasting and will last for many years. Many implants can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
Convenience. Removable dentures are exactly that. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassment of removing dentures and the necessity for sticky adhesives to keep them in place.
How Effective Are Dental Implants?
Dental implant success rates vary depending on where the implants are placed in the jaw, but in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. Implants can last a lifetime if properly cared for (see below).
Is it possible for anyone to get dental implants?
Anyone who is healthy enough to have a standard dental extraction or oral surgery can usually be eligible for a dental implant. Patients must have healthy gums and sufficient bone to support the implant. They must also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist on a regular basis. Individuals who are heavy smokers, have uncontrolled chronic diseases such as diabetes or heart disease, or have had radiation therapy to the head/neck area should be assessed. If you are thinking about getting implants, consult with your dentist to discover if they are right for you.
Is the cost of dental implants covered by insurance?
Dental implants Lafayette LA are not currently covered by dental insurance. Depending on your insurance plan and/or the cause of tooth loss, coverage under your medical plan may be possible. Ask your dentist and insurance provider detailed questions about your specific needs and how they relate to insurance.
What Is the Procedure for Getting a Dental Implant?
The initial step in the dental implant procedure is to create a specific treatment plan. The plan is tailored to your unique requirements and is created by a team of specialists in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. This team approach offers coordinated care depending on the optimal implant option for you.The tooth root implant, which is a small titanium post, is then inserted into the bone socket of the lost tooth. As the jawbone heals, it develops around the inserted metal post, securing it in place. Healing time can range from six to twelve weeks.