Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option that has been used in DFW for several years. But some people still have questions about their safety, given the fact that modern implants have only been popular for a couple of decades.
The truth is the materials used to make dental implants have been used for at least a few decades. The same materials—primarily titanium—are frequently used in safe, FDA-approved surgeries such as joint replacement. Our DFW dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth, and at ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry in DFW, our on-site specialists are experts in dental implant therapy. We want you to know that we’ve done extensive research on implant methodology and can assure our patients that implants are one of the safest procedures in all of modern dentistry.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium devices that replace the roots of missing teeth. They’re made from titanium because of the biocompatibility of this hypoallergenic metal. You see, our bodies accept titanium as something that’s natural, which allows our bone to accept it like it’s any other part of your mouth. Once the implants are placed, they fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. After it’s fully integrated, your implant can support the weight of a natural tooth.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, DFW dental implants are extremely safe. They have been used for over 25 years with a high success rate. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the success rate for dental implants is over 95% (close to 98-99% in most cases.) This makes them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available in the United States. There are no allergens contained in the titanium, and even people with metal sensitivities do well with conventional implant designs.
What are the risks of dental implant surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with dental implant installation. These risks include infection, nerve damage, and implant failure due to infection. However, these risks are extremely rare and can be minimized by working with a specialist. Choosing an implant dentist with advanced training and resources for implant installation improves your treatment success rates, as complications are less likely.
At ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry, we believe that the better educated our patients are about their smile, the more successful their implant treatment is. That’s why we review all concerns ahead of time and give you careful instructions on how to care for your implants on a day-to-day basis. Gum infections are the leading cause of implant failure, but they can be avoided with a preventative brushing, flossing, and checkup routine.
How long do dental implants last?
By design, today’s dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant may need to be replaced at some point in time, but the implant itself should remain stable and secure for the rest of your life. Since the implant is integrated with the bone, the goal is to keep your mouth healthy and avoid any periodontal (peri-implantitis) infections. The better home care you have, the longer your dental implant should last.
Are there any age restrictions for dental implants?
There are no age restrictions for dental implants. However, younger patients may need to wait until their jawbone is fully developed before receiving dental implants, which is usually around age 18 or so. As long as a patient has a healthy jawbone and gums, they may be a candidate for dental implant surgery. It doesn’t matter if you’re 25, 55, or 75. No one is ever “too old” to replace their teeth with implants.
Are dental implants compatible with medical conditions and medications?
In general, dental implants are compatible with most medical conditions and medications. However, certain medical conditions or medications may affect the healing process or increase the risk of infection. Patients should discuss their medical history and any medications they are taking with our implant specialists before receiving dental implants. Please be sure to include everything from over-the-counter supplements you’re taking to recent hospitalizations or surgeries. The more we know about your oral and overall health history, the better we can determine if dental implants are right for you.
How do I know if I am a candidate for dental implants?
To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, your specialists will evaluate your overall oral health and medical history, including the condition of your bone structure and gums. If you have sufficient bone density and are free of active gum disease, you are probably a candidate for dental implant surgery.
At ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry, we make it easy to find out whether or not implants are right for you. We offer free initial consultations and 3D scans to discuss your oral anatomy and smile goals. Once we gather this essential information, our experts can determine whether or not you qualify for dental implant treatment.
What is the dental implant process like?
The dental implant process typically involves several stages ranging from planning to surgery to final restoration. First, dental implants are surgically placed into the bone. Then, a healing period of several months is needed to allow the implants to fuse with the bone so that they can support the fixed “tooth” on top of it. Once the implants have fully integrated, abutments are attached to the implants. Finally, a crown, bridge, or denture is secured to the abutments to complete the tooth replacement.
Are dental implants more expensive than other tooth replacement options?
Dental implant treatments are generally more expensive than other tooth replacement options in the beginning. However, they offer many long-term benefits, including improved stability and longevity. When you compare implants to the cost of dentures or fixed bridges, the overall investment in implants is much more cost-effective.
Reserve a Consultation Today
If you are considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option, our team at ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry in DFW can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
