Dental implant surgery is a good alternative to dentures and bridgework for people who are missing teeth, doctors at the Mayo Clinic report. Fixed bridgework in the mouth can damage existing teeth, and dentures can be difficult to wear and embarrass denture wearers with annoying clicking sounds. Teeth implants are surgically set into the jaw and act as roots for the permanent replacements.
Options
A dental implant can be used to replace one tooth or the entire set of teeth. Good candidates for implants include those who have healthy gums and bone structure in the jaw to support the metal implants and adults whose jaws are fully developed. People who are unwilling to wear dentures should consider implants as an option.
Risks
Dental implants require surgery, which always carries inherent risks such as infection and adverse reactions to anesthesia. The Mayo Clinic reports that complications from dental implants are rare, however, and can usually be easily corrected. Other problems that can result include injury to the surrounding teeth, nerve damage and sinus problems when implants are inserted incorrectly in the upper jaw.
Process
The implant procedure is a process that can last up to nine months because the work is done in stages. The gum first is cut open to expose the jawbone and drilled to create a place for the implant. A temporary tooth is typically provided for daytime wear while the jawbone heals from this first procedure. Then a cylinder is placed into the opening and left to heal while the bone grows to incorporate the artificial root into the bone structure of the mouth. The gum is then reopened and the implant attached to the cylinder. The gums are then allowed to heal again before the final crown is placed on the new tooth.
Side Effects
Post surgery pain is present usually following every phase of the process, but doesn't last for more than a day or two. Eating may be interrupted because the dentist may recommend soft food while healing is ongoing and the area may be too sensitive for chewing. Antibiotics may be needed if the swelling from each procedure continues.
Costs
Most dental implants are not covered by insurance, as of late 2009. The Consumer Guide to Dentistry reports that a single implant can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the dentist and the quality and brand of materials used in the new teeth. A full-mouth reconstruction can run as high as $100,000.
