Implants are often the best solution for missing and damaged teeth. They adhere to the jaw and are securely affixed to the gum. With the proper care, they can last a lifetime.
Implants can replace any tooth in the mouth, including molars. These teeth, which sit in the back of the mouth, play a vital role in chewing and mouth placement. Their loss can cause various dental issues.
Molar implant procedures have been performed with high success rates helping people achieve a higher level of oral health.
What are Molars and Why are They So Important?
Molars are the teeth in the very back of your mouth. Most adults have twelve molars at some point, three in each quadrant. However, wisdom tooth molars are often removed leaving just eight molars.
The molars are large and flat with four or five cusps. They are useful for crushing and grinding and play a huge role in the chewing process.
Problems with Molars
Unfortunately, molars are prone to tooth decay. They have deep grooves and pits that attract food particles that are difficult to eliminate. Because they are in the back of the mouth, food often goes unnoticed. Additionally, their positioning makes them hard to clean with the proper techniques.
As a result, molars are prone to decay. If things get out of hand, an extraction could be necessary.
Dentists typically do all they can to avoid molar extraction. They play a huge role in chewing. Without them, a person puts extra pressure on the front teeth leading to alignment issues, TMJ, and jaw pain.
However, if extraction is necessary, dental implants can replace them supporting healthy chewing behavior and a more confident smile.
What is the Success Rate of Implants?
Implants can last a lifetime with the proper treatment, but issues may arise. Infection, nerve damage, and sinus problems could occur prompting implant removal. The implant could be loose or placed incorrectly leading to additional work.
MDPI Study
Although implants are not always permanent, an MDPI retrospective study shows a relatively high success rate. The study looked at elderly people 65+, a population commonly requiring implants. The five-year survival rate for implants was 99%. The ten-year survival rate was 98.1%.
Most implants were lost due to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory response to implants. Most of the patients who lost implants had them replaced through non-invasive procedures.
The study went on to look at the positioning of the implants lost. All implants lost within the first five years were molar implants. There were more variations in implant losses over ten years. However, most patients had their molar implants successfully replaced.
Wiley Online Library Study
A study published in the Wiley Online Library looked at long-term implant retention over 25 years. It revealed the patients who participated in supportive implant therapy (SIT) had a 95% survival rate.
The study was relatively small looking at only 26 patients with 75 implants. Still, it supports statistics that implants have an overall survival rate greater than 80%. Furthermore, most patients (60%) do not develop peri-implantitis over 25 years.
In terms of molar implants, one issue was noted concerning a screw fracture. Screw issues were also an issue in other implant positions.
Are Molar Implants Right for You?
Molar implants are typically a permanent solution providing the functionality and appearance of real teeth, but they are not for everyone. Specifically for molars, individuals must consider which molar they are missing.
For example, the Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry discovered first molars are responsible for 90% of chewing. So, if you’re missing your second molars but still have your first molars, implants may not be necessary. However, you may opt for implants regardless, depending on how lost molars affect your comfort and chewing ability.
You may also consider other options that are not as extreme and invasive such as a bridge or a partial denture.
Here are some other factors to consider when determining if implants are right for you.
- Bone density: Patients should have enough bone density in the jaw to support implants. If they don’t, they may require a bone graft.
- Gum Health: You must have healthy gums and no periodontal disease.
- Healing Ability: You must not have any medical conditions that interfere with your bone-healing ability.
- Smoking: You can get dental implants if you smoke. However, smoking can lower success rates.
- Oral Hygiene: Patients must commit to good oral hygiene to ensure their implants last.
- Age: A person must be at least 18 years old to get dental implants. However, their jaw may be maturing at that age. Therefore, they may still be too young.
How Can I Insure My Molar Implants Last?
Implants can last a lifetime, and studies have shown high success rates. However, the proper care is necessary. Your provider will recommend the best techniques, but proper oral care is key.
Here are some post-care tips:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Floss once a day using a special floss that gets between your implants.
- Use mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
- See your dentist regularly.
- Avoid smoking which can impact gum and bone health and lead to implant failure.
- Avoid sugary foods and rinse your mouth after eating them.
- Wear a mouthguard to protect your implants during physical activity.
32Ology is Tarzana’s Preferred Choice for Molar Implants
There is one more tip that will ensure long-lasting molar implants- choose the right dentist. A skilled dentist will install implants correctly and ensure patients follow proper care instructions. They will follow up with recommended aftercare procedures.
32Ology is a dentist you can trust for molar implant procedures. We offer everything from routine exams to advanced dentistry. We provide personalized care and a friendly, comforting atmosphere.
Dr. Choi is our dental implant expert. He is known for his gentle touch and expertise in the dental industry. His outstanding results speak for themselves.
Contact us to book a consultation with Dr. Choi today. He will review your options and ensure you get the best possible care.
Dr. Choi – Dental Implant Specialist in Los Angeles, CA.
32ology Dental Studio – Multi Specialty Dental Center
18740 Ventura Blvd., Ste 108 Tarzana CA 91356
(818) 776-1236
Serving : Tarzana | Sherman Oaks | Encino | Woodland Hills | West Hills | Reseda