Dental Implant 5 Years After Extraction

Are you wondering if it’s possible to get dental implants years after tooth extraction? Salvi, who had three teeth extracted on the top left side seven years ago, is in a similar situation. Fed up with his partial denture, he’s now seeking a more permanent option that won’t affect his remaining teeth. But can he still get dental implants after such a long wait? Let’s explore his options.

Don’t Worry, It’s Never Too Late

Salvi, as long as you are a candidate for dental implants, it’s not too late to consider this solution. Despite the ten years since your tooth extractions, dental implants are still a viable option for you. However, there are a few factors to consider before restoring your teeth. Let’s discuss three important considerations.

1. Jawbone Shrinkage

Over the past ten years, you may have experienced some degree of jawbone shrinkage. This occurs because the body naturally resorbs bone in areas where teeth are missing. Sufficient bone density is crucial for successful dental implant placement. If you have experienced bone shrinkage, don’t worry. Bone grafting can rebuild it, but it requires a healing period of a few months before implants can be placed.

2. Individual Implants for a Natural Look

Based on your preferences, it seems that individual implants may be the way to go. With this option, a single dental implant is used to replace each missing tooth. There are several advantages to this approach:

• Individual implants provide a more aesthetically pleasing result compared to a dental bridge.
• They are easier to clean, promoting better oral hygiene.
• Each implant stimulates the jawbone, preventing further shrinkage.
• Unlike a dental bridge, individual implants reduce the risk of gum recession, ensuring a natural appearance.

3. Implant-Supported Bridge for Affordability

If you have multiple missing teeth in the same area, an implant-supported bridge could be a more cost-effective choice. In this case, the bridge is anchored with dental implants instead of being placed on shaved-down natural teeth. The replacement teeth are suspended between the implant anchors. However, it’s important to note that over time, gum recession can occur, potentially exposing the appliance.

Take the Next Step: Consultations with Implant Dentists

To determine the best course of action for your dental implant journey, we recommend scheduling consultations with experienced implant dentists. Look for board-certified prosthodontists, as they specialize in tooth replacement and restorations. Here are a few steps to guide you:

• Seek recommendations from friends and family, and read patient reviews.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask each specialist during the consultations.
• Compare your options, estimated costs, and your overall interaction with each dentist.
• Request before-and-after pictures of the prosthodontists’ work on individual implants and implant-supported bridges.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and discover reliable alternatives to your partial denture that are durable and natural-looking.

Ready to make a change? Consult an experienced implant dentist today. Remember, your smile matters!

This post is sponsored by Make You Smile, dedicated to bringing smiles to your face.