Are Dental Implants as Strong as Real Teeth?
Dental implants not only look and function like real teeth, they can last for years, or even a lifetime if they are cared for correctly. Made of titanium, dental implants make it easier to speak and chew, feel comfortable in the mouth and are the strongest tooth replacement option available. At Elysian Dental, we pride ourselves in providing exceptional care and expert dental solutions for our patients. If you are considering dental implants, you might be wondering how well they hold up compared to real teeth? Read on to find out more.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a metal post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once in place, the implant allows your dentist to mount replacement teeth onto them. Dental implants can replace one or several missing teeth and offer a sound alternative to dentures and bridges.
Dental Implants Are Made of Titanium
An implant has three parts:
The Post – a titanium screw that serves as a root for your new tooth. It is inserted permanently into the jawbone to stimulate the bones and nerves that keep your jaws healthy.
The Abutment – a permanent connector that supports the replacement crown.
The Crown – the part of the tooth that you can see. It’s usually made of porcelain and is super strong, so you can bite into an apple.
Both the post and the abutment are made of titanium, one of the strongest known metals. It resists corrosion and is capable of joining with human bone. Dental titanium is also biocompatible, meaning the body is highly unlikely to reject the foreign material. After implant surgery, the bone heals and fuses around the titanium post resulting in a replacement tooth that is just as strong, if not stronger than, the natural tooth.
The Strength of Your Implant is Determined by the Strength of Your Jawbone
The strength of your jawbone, and your jaw’s ability to heal around the implant directly influences the strength and stability of the implant. Unlike natural teeth, implants are anchored to the bone rather than by the tooth’s roots in the gums. Natural teeth are allowed some movement since they are attached into the gums with ligaments, while dental implants should not move at all. In most cases, dental implants are stronger and can withstand more pressure than natural teeth. Some patients may need to undergo a bone graft before receiving dental implants. Bone grafts strengthen the jawbone, ensuring it is well equipped to heal around the titanium implant.
Are You Eligible for Dental Implants?
While each client will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, these factors are what most dentists will usually look for when determining your eligibility:
- A good amount of bone density is required to make sure that a dental implant will fuse with the jawbone. This is why children are usually not good candidates for dental implants as their developing bones are not yet dense enough.
- Receiving a dental implant is a surgical procedure so candidates should be generally healthy. Smokers, heavy drinkers, and diabetics may not be eligible.
- Patients will periodontal disease will not be eligible for dental implants until the gums are strong enough to support the implant.
- Proper oral hygiene is necessary to ensure your implant will last. If you do not regularly brush and floss, your implant will likely become infected.
Are you interested in replacing a missing or damaged tooth with a dental implant? Elysian Dental can help give you back your smile. Our dentists work with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation and throughout your check-ups, to make sure you are well informed and that any questions you have about your dental implants are promptly answered. Call us today on (08) 6396 2116 to book an appointment.
