When it comes to replacing missing or damaged teeth, dental implants have become one of the most popular and effective options available today. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that can restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. But are dental implants right for you? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about dental implants.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as a replacement root for a missing tooth. It consists of three key components. These are the implant post, the abutment and a tooth replacement feature, such as a crown. The Implant post is a titanium screw-like post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. The abutment is the connector that attaches the implant post to the replacement tooth. On the other hand, the replacement tooth (Crown) is a custom-made crown that is placed on top of the abutment. It is used to replace the visible part of the missing tooth.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

1. Durability and longevity – Dental implants are known for their durability. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades and could last a lifetime. Unlike other tooth replacements that may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, dental implants can provide a long-term solution to missing teeth.
2. Improved functionality – One of the key benefits of dental implants is that they function just like natural teeth. They are anchored securely into the jawbone, which means you can eat, speak, and smile without worrying about discomfort or slippage. Implants restore full chewing power, making them a great option for those who want to enjoy their favourite foods without limitations.
3. Natural look and feel – Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. The crown placed on the implant is custom-made to match the size, shape, and colour of your existing teeth, ensuring that your smile looks natural and complete. Implants are virtually indistinguishable from your real teeth.
4. Bone health preservation – One of the unique advantages of dental implants over other tooth replacement options is their ability to preserve bone structure. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to shrink over time due to lack of stimulation. Implants help prevent bone loss by providing the necessary stimulation to the jawbone. Hence, they promote healthy bone growth and maintain facial structure.
5. Improved confidence and self-esteem – Having a full, functional set of teeth can significantly improve your confidence and self-esteem. Missing teeth, especially in visible areas, can affect the way you speak, smile, and interact with others. Dental implants can help restore your confidence by providing a natural and permanent solution to missing teeth.

What is the dental implant process?

The process of getting dental implants is straightforward, though it requires a few stages and some patience. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

1. Consultation and evaluation – Before proceeding with dental implants, your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation to assess your oral health. This may involve X-rays and 3D scans to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine if you are a good candidate for implants. If your jawbone is too thin or weak to support the implant, your dentist may recommend bone grafting before moving forward with the procedure.
2. Surgical placement of the implant – Once you’re deemed a good candidate, the first step in the implant process is the surgical placement of the implant. During this procedure, the dentist will place the titanium post into your jawbone under local anaesthesia. This is typically a quick procedure, but healing time can take several months, as the bone needs to integrate with the implant.
3. Attachment of the abutment – After the implant has fully integrated with the bone, the next step is to attach the abutment, which connects the implant to the final restoration. This part of the process may require a minor surgical procedure to expose the implant and place the abutment.
4. Placement of the restoration – Once the abutment is securely in place, the final step is the placement of the custom crown, bridge, or denture. Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a restoration that fits perfectly with your remaining natural teeth. After the restoration is placed, your implant will look and function like a natural tooth.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are suitable for most adults who are in good overall health. However, there are specific conditions that make some people better candidates than others:

1. Healthy gums – Having healthy gums is essential for successful dental implant placement. Gum disease can hinder the healing process and make it difficult for the implant to properly fuse with the jawbone.
2. Sufficient bone density – For dental implants to be successful, there must be enough healthy bone in the jaw to support the titanium post. If you’ve lost significant bone due to tooth loss, your dentist may recommend a bone graft. This helps restore the bone structure before implant placement.
3. Non-smoking – Smoking can increase the risk of complications, including implant failure. Smokers are generally advised to quit or significantly reduce their tobacco use before undergoing the procedure. This is done to increase their chances of success.
4. No severe health conditions – Certain medical conditions may interfere with the healing process and affect the success of dental implants. These include conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders. It’s important to discuss your full medical history with your dentist to determine if implants are the best choice for you.

The Bottom Line

Dental implants are an excellent choice for those looking for a permanent solution to missing or damaged teeth.  They not only provide relief from tooth loss but also match real teeth in performance, comfort and functionality. Do you feel that dental implants are the right solution for you? Are looking for a perfect dental care centre for the procedure? Then look no further than the Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic, located at the Park Suites Building in Parklands. Here, you get quality and professional services from accomplished dental care experts. Still have questions or reservations about the procedure, contact us to make enquiries or book an appointment with our dentist.