Dental implants are a popular solution to missing teeth. When a tooth which is damaged or severely decayed is lost or removed by a dentist, the crown and root of the tooth is lost. When a dental implant replaces a tooth, an implant is put into the jawbone which eventually fuses with your remaining bone. This implant allows a crown, bridge or denture to be attached and no one has to know your tooth or teeth have been replaced.
The benefits of dental implants include:
–The replaced tooth or teeth looks, feels, and works like a natural tooth. It helps you eat, smile and speak like your normal teeth. Missing teeth can inhibit those normal daily functions.
–Implants are built to last a lifetime when properly cared for unlike bridges that are not implanted, which typically last from five to ten years if properly cared for and maintained.
–Implants allow your facial structure to remain the same. This makes your face and smile look more natural, as opposed to a face with several missing teeth which can appear to be sunken, or sag.
–Speaking with a dental implant is the same as if you were speaking with your natural teeth.
–Implants allow you to eat your favorite food! You can bite, chew, and taste your food just as with a natural tooth.
–A dental implant allows you to be cavity-free, though you would still care for the implant area just as with your natural teeth and gums.
–While dentures can slip when you move your mouth (speaking, eating, kissing, etc.) your implant stays firmly in place.
–dental implants support the jawbone, while missing teeth cause jawbone deterioration. Implants actually preserve and stimulate natural bone.
–dental implants go into the jawbone where your tooth or teeth were located without impacting healthy teeth. This keeps your health teeth from shifting to make up for the lost space.
And finally, dental implants have an extensive track record for successfully treating lost teeth reliably. Best of all, caring for a dental implant is no different than caring for your natural teeth!
If you have a missing tooth or teeth and are in good overall health, you may be a candidate for dental implant treatment. Please call our office at 619.470.2558 if you are ready to restore your healthy smile!