The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants replace missing teeth and are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. Unlike dentures or a bridge, dental implants are permanent tooth replacements. They also provide additional health benefits beyond replacing your missing teeth.
Most patients with missing teeth can be candidates for dental implants. They should be committed to regular oral health care and have enough healthy bone to support an implant. Heavy smokers, people with uncontrolled chronic diseases, and those who have received radiation therapy to the head/neck area may not be eligible for this treatment. However, advancements in diagnostics and bone reconstruction allow many more people to receive dental implants than in the past.
Unlike removable dentures, dental implants can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. They are a permanent replacement option that can improve your self-esteem and your ability to chew and speak normally. In addition, dental implants prevent surrounding teeth from shifting or loosening, which can lead to more serious health problems.
A dental implant restores full chewing capacity, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and return to an active lifestyle without fear of slipping or losing your tooth. In fact, many people can’t tell the difference between their natural teeth and their implant-supported crowns. In addition, dental implants are more comfortable than dentures because they don’t slip or slide around in your mouth.
Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth or all of your natural teeth. They are a long-term investment in your health and well-being, and they are a more attractive and comfortable solution to removable dentures or traditional bridges.
The best dental implant is a titanium one, which is biocompatible. Titanium is a strong and durable material that can be used to form artificial teeth, jawbones, and other body structures. It also stimulates new bone growth and does not corrode.
You should choose a qualified dentist who has extensive experience with dental implants and the latest technology in this field. The dental implant process is complex and requires the collaboration of several specialists. These include a surgeon who specializes in conditions of the mouth, jaw, and face (oral and maxillofacial surgeon), a dentist who treats gums and bones (periodontist), and an artificial teeth specialist (prosthodontist).
If you choose to get an implant, your dental insurance may cover some of the procedure. However, you should contact your dental plan to find out more.
When you lose a tooth, the nearby teeth shift to fill the empty space and can cause gaps where food gets stuck. These gaps can lead to decay and even further tooth loss, and they can also expose the roots of adjacent teeth to bacteria that can affect your overall health. When you get a dental implant, the titanium tooth root will fill the gap and help keep your other teeth in place. This will not only protect your other teeth, but it will also prevent jawbone loss.