A dental implant is a titanium screw that can support an implant abutment and crown or bridge to restore a missing tooth or teeth. Implants have been researched for approximately three-quarters of a century. They are comfortable, seamless, and can last a lifetime.
Do Nothing / Leave Space
Denture / Flipper / Partial
Bridge (Tooth Supported)
Implant Crowns & Bridges
Continued Bone Loss / Jaw Atrophy
Yes
Yes
Yes
None
Speed of Treatment
N/A
Slow
Fast
Teeth In A Day Delayed Treatment
Comfort
Low
Low
High
High
Neighboring Teeth Problems
Yes
Yes
Sometimes
None
10 Year Studies
N/A
< 50%
90%*
97%
What Are The Alternatives To Dental Implants?
A dental bridge can be a great alternative to dental implants. It is essentially several crowns splinted together to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Adjacent teeth are prepped, and the bridge is delivered. Whether you are opting for a dental bridge or implant, the restorations feel natural and essentially the same. Bridges and implants are comfortable, and you will forget which teeth are your natural teeth and which teeth are artificially restored. Bridges cannot be flossed.
Why Do Implants Last Longer Than Anything Else?
Implants cannot get decayed whereas support teeth for tooth-supported bridges can.
What Would Not Make Me A Suitable Candidate?
Periodontal disease. Once infected teeth are removed, you may then convert into a suitable candidate.
Can I Replace My Entire Mouth With Dental Implants?
Yes. All-On-X therapy involves replacing all your teeth with a minimum of four implants in each arch. Oftentimes, you will receive a temporary bridge in just one day.
How Many Appointments Does It Take For A Dental Implant?
As little as one or two appointments. Treatment plans will vary. The average is closer to seven appointments, however, IV sedation and proper numbing will be achieved to avoid potential discomfort.
What Would Make Me An Unsuitable Candidate For A Tooth Supported Dental Bridge (Alternative To Implants)?
Polypharmacy (taking multiple medications) and parafunction (clenching/grinding) will cause early failure of dental bridges including tooth decay and fracture.