Dental implants: the facts

Why do people need dental implants?

The majority of cases fall into one of the following four categories:

• implants are an alternative to conventional bridges and partial dentures
• impants are required to help cement existing dentures in place
• lost teeth result in shrinking of the jawbone, which implants repair
• implants can be used to support a bridge to avoid affecting healthy teeth

For your dentist to recommend implants, you must be in good general health, have healthy gums and a strong jawbone. Implants are less likely to be successful if you smoke. Chronic conditions such as osteoporosis or diabetes can also influence a dentist’s recommendation.

It is also important to remember that dental implants have a high success rate. Surgery is commonly performed, is generally safe and implants can last for many years. At the same time, patients are always recommended to maintain good oral hygiene. Dentists recommend that implant patients spend more time brushing their teeth and flossing, while also attending regular check-ups and receiving X-rays. Often, crowns, bridges and dentures are more likely to be damaged (and are more easily replaced), then the implants that support them.

There can be other side-effects and complications resulting from an implant procedure which are dependent on the general health of the patient. The right approach, therefore, is to consult at length with your dentist before giving your consent to implants. You may also wish to consult your GP and/or local pharmacist.

1. Dental implants
2. Dental implants: the facts
3. Dental implants: the alternatives
4. Dental implants: the procedure
5. Dental implants: the advantages
6. Dental implants: the costs
7. Dental Implants: the result