Tooth loss is an issue that affects patients and clients of all ages, and can be a result of trauma or injury, gum disease, tooth decay, or another unexpected circumstance. The impact of tooth loss can be debilitating, both from a practical perspective and in terms of your confidence.

Countless clients come to us seeking a solution that will give them back their confident smile and will make everyday tasks like eating and communicating easier and more comfortable. More often than not, our recommended treatment is dental implants in Essex – replacing the lost tooth with a permanent and more durable structure. Keep reading for more on dental implants and how they work.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are, in the most basic of explanations, used to describe the end-to-end process of a replacement tooth being fitted. However, it’s only when you break the replacement tooth down into its components that you really understand the process and how these fittings work.

The root of your missing tooth is replaced by a titanium screw – technically making this the implant portion of your replacement tooth. A connector sits at the top of this screw, fixing the ceramic crown to the screw. The latter component is the only visible part of your dental implant, restoring your smile with a completely natural aesthetic that compliments your full set of teeth.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for a Dental Implant?

Your suitability for a dental implant depends on a number of things – namely your approach to dental hygiene, healthy gums, and sufficient jawbone to hold the implant securely in place. One of the advantages of dental implants is the longevity of the solution. Typically clients will find that a well-fitted dental implant will last for years – however, this does rely on a good starting level of oral hygiene and health.

Another factor to consider is ongoing general health. If a client has an underlying condition that requires medication and could impact their ability to recover post-treatment, this will be taken into account. Similarly, if they smoke or drink a lot of alcohol, these lifestyle factors can impact eligibility for dental implants.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

With all that in mind then, are dental implants really the secret to restoring your confidence and fixing your smile in the long run?

In most cases, yes – provided dental implants are backed by an effective approach to dental health and hygiene. If you have a gap in your smile, dental implants don’t just plaster over the problem but rather plug the gap and give you a boost of confidence.

To find out more about dental implant prices, the side effects and other factors including post-treatment recovery time, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at The Essex Smile Centre. We’re always happy to help.