Are you missing one or more teeth? If so, you’re not alone. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 35 million Americans are missing all of their teeth in one or both jaws. And 120 million have lost at least one tooth. While dental implants have been around for over 50 years, they’re becoming increasingly popular as people seek a more permanent solution to tooth loss. Here’s a look at dental implants and how they can benefit you.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as the roots for replacement teeth. Once the implants are in place, your dentist will attach artificial teeth (crowns) to them. Dental implants are strong and durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
If you have lost teeth due to injury or disease, dental implants can help you regain your smile. Dental implants are the most natural and lifelike way to replace missing teeth. They look, feel, and function like your own teeth. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
Dental implants are an investment in your health and your appearance. They can give you back your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. And they can improve your overall oral health by preventing bone loss in the jaw.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many benefits of dental implants, including:
Improved Appearance:
Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. And because they’re designed to fuse with your bone, they become permanent.
Dental implants are ideal for people who have lost one or more teeth. The surgery is typically relatively straightforward, and the results are natural-looking and long-lasting.
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s essential to have a consultation with a qualified implant dentist. They will be able to assess your case and advise you on the best course of treatment.
Improved Speech:
With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth, making it difficult to speak clearly. Dental implants allow you to talk without the worry that your teeth will slip. Dental implants also improve your ability to eat. With poor-fitting dentures, chewing can be difficult, and some foods may even be off-limits. Dental implants allow you to eat without worrying that your teeth will slip or you won’t be able to chew correctly.
Dental implants are also more comfortable than other options. They don’t require the use of adhesives, and they feel more like your own teeth.
Improved Comfort:
Unlike dentures which can be uncomfortable and require time to get used to, most people report feeling little or no discomfort after placement of dental implants.
Dental implants don’t require special care beyond regular brushing and flossing. They also help to preserve bone in the jaw, which can help to keep your smile looking young and healthy for years to come.
If you are considering dental implants, consult with a qualified implant dentist who can assess your individual needs and ensure that the procedure is correct for you.
Eating:
Dental implants function like natural teeth, so you can quickly eat all your favorite foods without pain or difficulty. Implants are durable and will last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants can improve your appearance by correcting tooth loss and preventing further damage to your smile.
Finding a qualified implant dentist with experience placing and caring for them is essential if you’re considering dental implants. Your implant dentist will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your specific needs.
Improved Oral Hygiene:
You can brush and floss normally when you have dental implants, which helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, because there are no gaps like dentures, food is less likely to become trapped, which also helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Dental implants are also easier to care for than dentures because you do not have to remove them to clean them. You can simply brush and floss as usual. Dental implants are less likely to cause discomfort than dentures, as they do not rub against the gums as dentures can.
Durability:
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants are made of titanium, a material that is well-tolerated by the body. Titanium posts or “anchors” are surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gum line. As the jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring them securely in the jaw. The healing process usually takes between six and 12 weeks.
Convenience:
Unlike dentures that need to be removed and cleaned daily, you care for dental implants just like your natural teeth, making them much easier to take care of daily.
Dental implants are also much more durable and long-lasting than dentures, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. Because they are securely anchored in your jawbone, they also don’t slip or click like dentures, making them much more comfortable and stable.
Conclusion:
Dental implants offer many benefits over traditional tooth replacement options such as dentures. If you’re considering dental implants, be sure to consult with an experienced implant dentist who can help you determine if they’re right for you. Schedule a consultation today!
North Austin Dentistry is a dental practice that offers a wide range of services, including dental implants. We’re dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care, and we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.