Less than half of Americans between the ages of 20 and 65 have a full set of adult teeth. Are you missing a tooth?

If you've experienced tooth loss as an adult, you know how frustrating it can be. You may struggle to eat or speak, and it may even impact your self-esteem. It's time to consider getting dental implants from your local dentist in Edgewater, NJ.

Not sure if dental implants are right for you? Let's talk about it. Read on to learn everything you need to know about dental implants so you can decide if they're right for you. 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are fantastic solutions for tooth loss. Patients can get individual implants or implant dentures depending on what they need. 

Each dental implant is comprised of three parts: the metal implant, the abutment, and the crown or replacement. The crown or replacement is the piece that looks like an actual tooth.

The abutment is a metal connector between the implant fixture and the crown. Some dentists place this at the same time as the implant, while others wait until the implant heals. Neither of these methods is better, but discuss them with your dentist when you're figuring out the timeline for your dental implant procedure.

The implant fixture is a piece of metal that goes into the patient's jawbone. This implant is like a fake tooth root. It's what keeps your brand new "tooth" in place and protects your jaw. 

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

So why would you choose to get dental implants instead of just getting dentures or leaving your gaps as they are? There are several reasons. Here's a quick rundown of the benefits of dental implants.

They're Good For Your Jaw

Did you know that losing a tooth is bad for your jaw bone? It can lead to bone loss or bone resorption. Bone loss can cause future pain, dental issues, and even change the shape of your face!

This is why people get the "sunken" look if they're missing a lot of teeth.

When you lose a tooth and a new tooth doesn't grow in its place, your jaw weakens. It now longer has anything pushing on it. A dental implant solves this problem.

The dental implant emulates your tooth root. When you apply pressure to the implant (just as you would your natural teeth while biting), it strengthens the surrounding bone increasing the longevity of the Implant. 

They Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth

Many people worry that dental implants will be too obvious, but this isn't the case. As long as you're working with a fantastic dentist, they'll be able to craft a dental implant that looks identical to the surrounding teeth.

It won't be too large, too small, or too white to fit in.

They also feel like natural teeth. While dentures can feel uncomfortable and make it difficult to speak or eat (at least at first), dental implants don't cause the same problems. Once you adapt, you won't even know your implant is there. 

They Protect Surrounding Teeth

When you're missing a tooth, you're putting the surrounding teeth at risk. You're more likely to break a nearby tooth because of the gap.

When you get dental implants, you're improving the health and safety of all of your other teeth. 

They're Easy to Care For

You will treat your dental implants just like your other teeth. You still need to brush and floss them (even though they can't get cavities). You don't have to soak them or do anything special. 

Note that you can't whiten dental implants, so avoid eating or drinking anything that can discolor them. 

Who's a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. You won't know for sure if you are until you make an appointment with your local dentist in Edgewater, NJ, but there are a few signs you can look for.

Good candidates for dental implants are missing at least one tooth or need at least one tooth removed. They have otherwise good oral health and hygiene. They also don't grind their teeth (or if they do, it's in moderation). 

They don't use tobacco because tobacco products can delay the healing process. They don't need significant dental work.

If you're not a good candidate now, improving your oral health is the first step toward becoming a better future candidate.

What Does the Procedure Look Like?

Your first appointment will be a consultation. During this consultation, a dentist will assess your smile goals and your oral health to see whether or not dental implants are right for you. They'll also discuss the cost of the procedure and any potential risks you should be aware of.

If you need a tooth removed, the next appointment will be for the removal. If not, the next appointment can be for the procedure.

During your first procedure appointment, the oral surgeon will make a small incision in your jaw and place a titanium post. This is the implant.

After the post is in place, patients have to wait several months. This time allows the post to merge with the jaw and heal.

After the healing period, the patient returns for their new "tooth." The oral surgeon will attach the "tooth" to the top of the implant and make sure the patient is happy with it.

Because the healing has already happened, there should only be a brief adjustment period after the new tooth is in place. It shouldn't have to heal. 

Talk to Your Dentist in Edgewater, NJ About Dental Implants

Do you think dental implants might be right for you? If you are (or will be) missing a tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants are a great solution. They'll protect your jaw and surrounding teeth, and you'll have a smile you're proud to show off.

At the Dental & Implant Center of Edgewater, our experienced dental professionals want to give all of our patients healthy and beautiful smiles. Contact us to set up an appointment with a dentist in Edgewater, NJ today.