5 Facts You Likely Didn’t Know About Dental Implants

While the idea of dental implants has been around for decades, it wasn’t until the last several decades that they became a more popular and commonly-offered dental treatment for patients with missing teeth. Over those years, the technology, materials, and techniques involved in the procedure has advanced drastically, leading this service to be one of the top recommended treatments for tooth replacement. Read on to learn five interesting facts you likely didn’t know about dental implants.

Dental Implants Can’t Develop Cavities

While dental implant posts themselves are crafted from durable, non-corrosive titanium, the replacement teeth that will be attached to the tops of them are crafted from natural-looking, high-quality dental materials like ceramic. This means that with your new replacement teeth, you’ll never have to worry about tooth decay causing them to erode.

The Procedure Has an Impressive 95% Success Rate

While there aren’t many long-term studies on dental implants because the procedure itself is relatively new, the research that has been conducted shows an impressive trajectory for these high-tech replacement teeth. After a five-year period of time, dental implants have been shown to be 95% successful.

Dental Implants Can Save You Money in the Long-Run

Because dental implants have a higher up-front cost than traditional restorative procedures, like dental bridges and dentures, they’re often chalked up to be the most costly way to replace missing teeth. However, that’s not exactly true. Since they have an average lifespan of up to four times as many traditional prosthetics, patients with dental implants require fewer replacement restorations and visits to the dentist. This is because their implant crown, bridge, or denture is healthier for longer!

The Surgical Placement Isn’t Complicated or Risky

Many patients are hesitant to say “yes” to dental implants because they’re worried about the surgical placement part of the procedure and the risks it carries. However, this procedure is routinely performed by thousands of dentists across the country and, as you saw above, boasts an incredibly high success rate. Plus, before undergoing the process, your dentist will thoroughly examine your medical and oral health histories to determine whether you’re a good candidate.

Dental Implants Can Stop Bone Loss

Dental implants are made from a biocompatible metal (titanium) that’s able to naturally fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This allows them to function and feel just like natural teeth, including preventing jawbone deterioration that can happen when teeth are missing or replaced with traditional restorations that don’t stimulate the jawbone.

About the Author

Dr. Chris Richards is a highly skilled dentist who is dedicated to sharpening and advancing his skills by regularly taking continuing education courses. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a 2016 graduate of the Masters Program of the Center of Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry in Dallas. One of his favorite treatments to offer is dental implants because he loves being able to help his patients rebuild their smiles, and in turn, their confidence. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit McDougal and Richards Dentistry’s website or call 972-231-5376.