Titanium Dental Implants
For millions of Americans, dental implants provide a long-lasting, aesthetically superior restoration option for missing teeth. The most popular type of dental implant is made of titanium, which is extremely biocompatible, resistant to corrosion, and extremely durable, offering a permanent, stable solution for tooth loss.
Why Are Most Implants Made of Titanium?
Titanium is the preferred material for dental implants for several reasons, but one of the most significant reasons is its biocompatibility. Dental implants are tiny posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they serve a similar function to natural tooth roots, supporting prosthetic teeth. As the jawbone heals around the dental implant posts, a process called osseointegration occurs; in this process, the bone and implant post fuse together, creating a permanent bond. The biocompatibility of titanium helps facilitate this bond and reduce the risk of implant rejection. After osseointegration is complete, the implant post is affixed with an attachment that supports the dental prosthetic; then, the dental restoration is completed with a lifelike replacement tooth or row of teeth. Not only is titanium highly compatible with human tissue, it is also very strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion and bacterial accumulation.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Durability isn’t the only benefit of dental implants, though it’s definitely a major perk. With the proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, providing multiple benefits to their wearer. Dental implants can support highly lifelike ceramic dental crowns, providing aesthetically superior results and boosting confidence and emotional well-being. Dental implants can also be used to support multiple teeth in a row, in the form of an implant-supported denture, stabilizing the denture and preventing the painful friction and irritation dentures can often cause. Unlike removable dentures, dental implants also help prevent bone loss in the jaw, exercising the bone tissue with daily use and helping keep the bone strong. Their stability allows wearers to enjoy a balanced, nutritious diet, chewing fibrous vegetables and sturdy proteins with ease and supporting the overall health, without any of the risks or inconveniences of trying to eat with a removable denture or with missing teeth.
What Are the Risks of Titanium Dental Implants?
At your initial consultation, your dentist will assess your bone quality and bone density with x-rays and digital images. If the bone is too compromised to support implants, bone grafts may be needed; without adequate, strong bone, dental implants face a greater risk of failure. Some patients aren’t good candidates for dental implants, including patients who smoke and those with certain medical conditions, and these concerns must be addressed with behavior modification and medical management before implants can be considered. Like any surgery, there are risks of infection or nerve damage, and dental implant restorations are time-consuming and costly. For millions of satisfied patients, however, these risks are worth the long-term satisfaction provided by titanium dental implants. Working with a reputable, experienced implant dentist reduces the risks associated with implants and ensures excellent results, and you can support the longevity of these results by taking care of your dental implants and your overall health.