Missing teeth are more common than one might think. There can be many different reasons why someone loses a tooth; poor dental hygiene resulting in decay or infection and trauma to the mouth are two of the most common. Fortunately, it isn’t necessary to live with tooth loss.
Dental implants have changed the way in which we can replace teeth that have fallen out or been extracted. Unlike other solutions, dental implants have a titanium post to support the structure. This is surgically implanted into the jawbone, which heals around it to secure it in place. An artificial tooth is then attached to the top of the post using a special connector. It is this unique design, combined with many of the other benefits of dental implants that makes them the preferred choice of many patients. Here’s what you need to know about the top benefits of dental implants.
Dental implants are considered to be the most discreet of all the solutions for missing teeth. This is because the visible part of the tooth, which is attached to the implant, is created for the custom requirements of the patient. This means it will be the shape, size and color needed to blend in perfectly with the other teeth. Once in place, nobody should be able to tell the tooth isn’t real.
One of the most popular benefits of dental implants is that they are stronger and more durable than any other tooth replacement solution. This is possible because the supporting implant is embedded into the jawbone. As a result, implants don’t slip and come loose like bridges and dentures can. And because dental implants are anchored into your jaw, they allow you to bite with more or less the same amount of force that your natural teeth do – which is much more than other tooth replacement options.
Artificial teeth can’t be affected by decay, which means no more cavity fillings for you! However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t need to be brushed – far from it. They still need to be subjected to a strict oral hygiene routine to prevent bacteria from building up in your mouth and causing gum disease and subsequent infections.
As we get older, it is normal for our bones to start to deteriorate. However, you may not realize that losing teeth is also a trigger for bone mass loss in the jaw. This is because there is no longer a root to stimulate healthy bone growth. As a result of bone deterioration, your face could start to change shape, and this could cause you to look older than you really are. Dental implants are currently the only tooth replacement solution to use an artificial root in the form of a titanium post, which stimulates healthy bone growth and keeps your jaw strong and your facial structure intact.
When we have gaps in our smile, our other teeth have extra space that they can take advantage of. This enables them to move around, opening up small spaces between them. Not only does this affect their appearance, but it can also increase the likelihood of damage and decay, since small gaps that are hard to clean are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria.
You’ll be pleased to know that dental implants are extremely easy to look after. In fact, you just have to brush and floss them as you would your regular teeth. There aren’t even any special products or treatments needed to keep them looking and feeling great. Regular appointments with your dentist will also ensure that your implants remain in the best possible condition.
If you would like to find out more about dental implants, or to schedule an appointment to discuss your candidacy, please contact the New York Institute of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at (718) 557-9478 today.
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