A dental implant is an advanced replacement tooth that copies the entire tooth structure. A titanium “root” is implanted to the bone as a base for a denture, bridge or crown. It has the look, feel and function of a real tooth and can last for life with proper care.
Dental implant technology is the most advanced and effective tooth loss treatment today, with its many advantages over earlier solutions. And, with the latest in dental diagnostics and bone reconstruction, most patients now have implants as an option, even those who were previously told they didn’t.
So what exactly are the benefits of dental implants compared to other solutions?
Work Like Real Teeth
One of the best things about implants is that they have full chewing ability. It can be difficult to distinguish them from your natural teeth. Eating, brushing and flossing can all be done as usual.
Last a Lifetime
As we have mentioned, while the lifespan of a dental bridge can only be a decade or so, dental implants’ is a lifetime. Implants are actually metals – titanium in particular – which integrate fully into the jawbone. It’s bio-compatible, meaning the body will accept it because it is non-toxic.
Keep Gum Disease and Bone Loss at Bay
The gap from an absent tooth can hold food and, therefore, bacteria, which can then cause gum disease. This can be prevented by dental implants, which are structurally the same as natural teeth. In the absence of tooth roots, the jaw bone does not get enough stimulation, and bone loss occurs. Again, implants address this problem. In comparison, dentures usually come loose and then rub against the bony ridge, wearing it away over time. Considering that an implant provides the root as well as the tooth, and chewing returns to normal, natural bone growth is possible as stimulation is provided.
Maintain Stability of Adjacent Teeth
The gap created by a missing tooth cause the crooked movement of adjacent teeth into the empty space. This changes not just how you look but also your bite and how you chew. It can lead to tooth replacement problems eventually. A poor bite can come with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues in time, causing pain and headaches.
Keep Face from Sagging
Facial sagging is one of the possible undesired effects of bone loss due to missing teeth. This is when the lower part of the face slowly collapses and closes the distance between the chin and the tip of the nose. Wrinkles appear around the mouth, lips become thinner and the chin more pointed, making one look way older than their actual age.
If you’re planning to get dental implants, however, don’t forget that the final outcome of the procedure rests significantly on the professional behind it. So make sure you choose your dentist well.